India – Cherry A

Origin: Karnataka and Kerala (Western Ghats)

Profile: Bold, Nutty, and Malty

India Cherry A is the “versatile workhorse” of the Indian Robusta family. As a “Cherry” grade, these beans are naturally processed (sun-dried in the whole fruit), which allows them to retain a heavy body and a rustic, cereal-like sweetness. The “Grade A” designation corresponds to Screen 17, making them slightly smaller than the AA grade but still maintaining a high standard of uniformity.

Indian Robusta is widely considered the cleanest in the world because of the country’s sophisticated farming practices and shaded plantations. Cherry A provides that classic, high-caffeine “kick” without the harshness or “rubbery” notes typically associated with lower-grade Robusta.

Flavour Experience

Body: Thick and buttery; provides a very “solid” mouthfeel.
Notes: Strong roasted grain, dark cocoa, and toasted walnut, with a hint of spice.
Acidity: Negligible; very smooth and “flat” in a way that balances high-acid Arabicas.
Finish: Clean and slightly woody, with a lingering malt sweetness.

Best Enjoyed As

While the AA grade is often used for premium single-origin Robusta showcases, Grade A is the favorite for:

Classic Espresso Blending: It is the “glue” that holds a blend together, providing a mahogany-colored crema and a chocolatey base that cuts through milk in cappuccinos.
Traditional Moka Pot: Its low acidity and high body make for a very intense, “old-school” Italian coffee experience at home.
Commercial Specialty: It offers an excellent price-to-quality ratio for roasters looking to boost the body of their wholesale offerings.

The Roaster’s Perspective: Screen 17 (A)

Many roasters actually prefer the Screen 17 (A) over the larger Screen 18 (AA) for high-volume production. The slightly smaller bean size can sometimes lead to a more even heat penetration to the center of the bean during a fast roast, ensuring the “cereal” notes stay sweet and toasted rather than becoming overly pungent.

Summary Table: India Robusta Grades

Grade	Screen Size	Best Use
Cherry AA	18	Premium Single-Origin Robusta / High-end Espresso
Cherry A	17	Standard Espresso Blending / House Blends
Cherry B	15/16	Instant Coffee / Budget-friendly Commercial Blends