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Indian Coffee for Roasters: Arabica, Robusta and Monsooned Malabar

12 June 2026 · 5 min read · Sunita Agri Exports Export Team

Indian Coffee for Roasters: Arabica, Robusta and Monsooned Malabar

India grows coffee under a canopy of shade trees, mainly in Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. This slow growth gives Indian coffee a mild acidity and full body.

Arabica and Robusta

India grows both. Indian Robusta is especially well known: washed Robusta (Parchment) and the higher grade Kaapi Royale are valued in espresso blends for body and crema. Arabica grades include Plantation A, the washed arabica from estates.

Grades

Indian green coffee is graded by bean size and processing, for example AA, A, AB, PB (peaberry) and C, and by whether it is washed (parchment) or natural (cherry). Screen size, defects and moisture are part of every contract.

Monsooned Malabar

A unique Indian coffee: natural Arabica or Robusta beans are exposed to monsoon winds in open warehouses on the Malabar coast for several weeks. The beans swell and turn pale, and the cup becomes low in acidity with an earthy, heavy body. It is popular with specialty roasters and in espresso blends.

Buying tips

Ask for samples to cup before you confirm, and agree the crop year. Green coffee ships in jute bags, often with GrainPro liners, and should be stored away from strong smells.

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