Which specialty coffee varietal is known for its mild flavor and is popular in many regions?

Arabica is recognized as the specialty coffee varietal known for its mild flavor profile, which contributes to its widespread popularity across various coffee-producing regions. This variety typically has a higher acidity than other types, offering a rounded and smoother taste that appeals to many coffee drinkers. Arabica is often cultivated at higher elevations, where cooler temperatures contribute to the development of its nuanced flavors, allowing for a range of tasting notes that can include floral, fruity, and sweet profiles.

In contrast, Robusta tends to have a stronger, more bitter flavor and is often used in espresso blends for its rich crema and higher caffeine content. Typica is indeed a variety of Arabica and shares some characteristics with it, but it is less recognized by its own name compared to the Arabica name as a whole. Excelsa, while interesting and unique, is less commonly known and has a more distinct and fruity flavor that does not align with the mild profiles typically favored in specialty coffee. Therefore, Arabica's mild flavor and broad acceptance make it the correct choice in this context.