I’ve exported coffee machines for 10 years, and one question haunts every buyer: “Why does my client hate Arabica—too sour? Or Robusta—too bitter? And is Geisha worth the hype?” The answer isn’t “preference”—it’s genetics + machine chemistry. Let’s break down these three iconic beans: what they taste like, where they sell, and how your machines can turn “meh” into “obsessed.”
1. Arabica: The “Fancy” Bean—But Not for Every Machine
Arabica ( Coffea arabica ) is the poster child of specialty coffee—originating in Ethiopia’s highlands, it’s 60% of global production. But here’s the catch: its delicate flavors demand precision.
Flavor Profile:
Think bright acidity (think citrus or red apple), floral notes (jasmine, lavender), and sweetness (honey, stone fruit). Light roasts amplify these; dark roasts turn it bitter (a common client complaint!).
Where It Sells:
- Europe/North America: Premium cafes and home brewers who want “terroir-driven” coffee.
- Export Hack: Pair Arabica with PID-controlled machines (like our Sheen 870). Stable temps (±0.5°C) prevent over-extraction—key for light roasts. A Norwegian client saw 25% fewer “too sour” returns after switching to our PID model.
2. Robusta: The “Workhorse”—And a Sales Savior in Some Markets
Robusta ( Coffea canephora ) is the unsung hero of espresso—native to Vietnam, it’s cheaper, higher in caffeine, and packed with crema (that golden foam everyone loves).
Flavor Profile:
Bold, earthy/bitter notes (dark chocolate, roasted nuts), with almost no acidity. Many buyers dismiss it—but that’s because they’re using the wrong machine.
Where It Sells:
- Southeast Asia/Middle East: Markets where “strong, creamy coffee” is king. A Vietnamese chain we supply uses Robusta blends in our semi-automatic machines—their espresso sales are up 30% because crema lasts 5+ minutes (a huge selling point).
- Export Hack: Robusta’s high oil content clogs cheap冲煮头. Our machines have anti-clog nozzles—perfect for high-volume cafes.
3. Geisha: The “Unicorn”—Worth the Splurge If You Know How to Brew It
Geisha (or Gesha) is Arabica’s rare cousin—discovered in Panama, it fetches $1,000+/kg. But its floral, tea-like flavors are fragile—your machine decides if it’s “heavenly” or “hay-like.”
Flavor Profile:
Intense jasmine/peach notes, juicy sweetness, and zero bitterness. Light roasts are a must—dark roasts murder its delicacy.
Where It Sells:
- Japan/South Korea: Ultra-premium markets where “craft coffee” is a lifestyle. A Tokyo specialty shop uses our manual lever machine for Geisha—low pressure pre-infuses the beans, unlocking floral notes. Their customers pay ¥1,500/cup and rave about “tasting a garden.”
- Export Hack: Geisha needs grind consistency (our Eureka Mignon grinder pairs perfectly) and slow extraction (28–30 seconds). Rush it, and you get sourness.
FAQs: Real Questions from Export Buyers
Let’s kill the guesswork:
Q: My client wants “balanced” coffee—Arabica too sour, Robusta too bitter. What do I do?
A: Blend them—70% Arabica (light roast) + 30% Robusta. The Robusta adds crema and body; the Arabica cuts the bitterness. Pair with our PID machine for temp stability.
Q: Is Geisha worth stocking? My clients are budget-conscious.
A: Target high-end cafes—not supermarkets. Frame it as “a luxury experience.” Our lever machine helps you justify the price by highlighting its unique brewing process.
Q: Can I use Robusta in a pour-over?
A: Only if your clients like bitter coffee. Pour-overs emphasize acidity—stick to Arabica. Robusta shines in espresso or French press.
Wrapping Up: Beans + Machines = Happy Clients
Every bean has a personality—and every machine can unlock it. At Sheen, we don’t just sell equipment; we match beans to markets, and flavors to brew methods.
Want to stop returns and start selling coffees your clients can’t stop talking about? Dive into our free guide, “Bean Varieties 101: From Crop to Cup,” or ping us for a custom roast + machine pairing.
Stay curious. Stay precise. Stay Sheen.
P.S. Struggling with a tricky bean? Share your client’s taste preferences—we’ll help you dial in the perfect machine setup!