This of course varies with each varietal. The cherries are hand picked, the pulp is removed, releasing the tiny coffee bean, which is a medium green color. The beans are then washed, dried, dehulled, sorted, graded, bagged, transported and shipped. Next, they are roasted, which causes them to increase to a plump size, and turn a light to dark brown color, while emitting the fresh roasted aroma coffee lovers know so well. Examples would be Hawaiin Kona, Jamaican Blue Mountain, Kenya Peaberry, etc.
Blends are combinations of varietals, in varying proportions.
Blends are developed to either complement or enhance the flavor characteristics of the varietal. Beans that have been treated with a concentrated extract immediately after the bean has been roasted. There is virtually no limit of possibilites in developing flavored coffees. Not as uniform in size or consistency as a fancy grade. Dark roasted for a sharp, lively flavor.