Trade · 7 min read
Indian Green Coffee Grades Explained: Plantation, Cherry, Parchment, AA and AB
Plantation AA, Robusta Cherry AB, Parchment PB — here is what every word on an Indian coffee contract means.
Quick answer
Indian green coffee is graded by species (Arabica or Robusta), processing (washed — called Plantation for Arabica and Parchment for Robusta — or natural, called Cherry) and bean size (AA, A, AB, PB, C). For example, 'Robusta Parchment AB' is washed Robusta of the AB screen size.
What do Plantation, Parchment and Cherry mean?
They describe processing. Washed Arabica is called Plantation; washed Robusta is called Parchment. Natural — sun-dried whole-cherry — coffee is called Cherry for both species: Arabica Cherry and Robusta Cherry. Washed coffees tend to taste cleaner and brighter; naturals are heavier-bodied.
What do AA, A, AB and PB mean?
They are size and shape grades determined by screens. AA and A are the largest beans; AB is a mix of A and B sizes and one of India's most traded grades; PB (peaberry) are the round single beans from cherries that develop only one seed; C covers smaller beans.
What else should a green coffee contract specify?
Beyond the grade name, agree in writing:
- Moisture limit — commonly 12.5% or lower
- Defect allowance and foreign matter
- Screen retention percentage
- Crop year and packing (60 kg jute, liners)
- Sampling and approval process
Which grade should a roaster buy?
Espresso roasters often blend Robusta Parchment or Cherry AB with washed Arabica for body and crema. Instant-coffee manufacturers typically buy Robusta Cherry. Always cup an approved sample from the actual lot.
Frequently asked questions
What is Monsooned Malabar?
A specialty Indian coffee whose green beans are exposed to monsoon winds on the Malabar Coast, which swells them and produces a mellow, low-acid cup.
Is Indian Robusta good quality?
Indian washed Robusta is well regarded internationally for its clean cup and body, and is widely used in espresso blends.
