As with most grocery store items, there are choices galore in the coffee aisle. Some of us get stuck in a rut, buying one coffee brand for years on end. There are some truly delicious coffees on offer, but coffee is quite expensive these days. You may feel you don't want to experiment with other brands only to be disappointed and be out some money. Here are some simple steps you can take that will allow you to hedge your bet, with very good odds of discovering new coffee brands you like.

There are two basic types of coffee beans, Arabica and Robusta. Arabica is the superior bean, with better body and flavor and no bitterness. The Robusta bean is usually mixed with Arabica in the lower priced coffee brands, so that the coffee company can pass the savings to you, for an economical cup of coffee. Each coffee company has its own proprietary mix which seeks to optimize the combination.

So, first on your survey is checking the labels of the different coffee brands, searching for the '100% Arabica' notation. If it isn't marked one way or the other, Robusta beans have been used. Although Arabica is more expensive, you'll certainly notice the difference in the taste. Interestingly, the 100% Arabica coffee may require less coffee to produce the strength you like.

Coffee that boasts 100% Arabica may still cost a bit more, but hey, you've got to live a little every now and then. If you find a gourmet bulk bean labeled Arabica, watch for the sales - they all go on sale regularly - and buy a small amount to test. Some grocers stock inexpensive sample size bags of these coffees to induce you to give one a try.

Right now, some coffee brands already feature organically developed 100% Arabica beans. Although somewhat expensive, but Mr. Grocer holds his sales on a regular basis and at very good prices.

Primarily for the canned coffee brands, they are mixes. You must read the label carefully as there is some that consist of all Arabica beans.

Another great place to try are coffee houses where they usually have a specialty for the day. Coffee sellers are well informed about their coffees and are happy to clue you in on the different blends. You can try taste for yourself for the price of a cup and if you like it, you can purchase a couple of amount. You can also try blends that taste just like that of a coffee house or make some of your own.

You can use this information to broaden your perspective on the coffee front. You will surely find a few new coffee brands and a couple of blends that will freshen your taste buds.

Article by Van T, you can learn more about him at his profile