The term highest quality coffee bean is subjective and depends on the individual's personal preferences. There are many factors that can affect the quality of a coffee bean, such as the variety, growing conditions, processing method, roasting level, and grind size. Some coffee drinkers prefer coffees made with Arabica beans, which are generally considered to be of higher quality than Robusta beans. Arabica beans are grown at high altitudes, resulting in a slower maturation process and a more complex flavor profile. They also contain less caffeine than Robusta beans. Coffee aficionados often debate over which country produces the highest quality coffee beans. Some believe that Brazil has the best conditions for growing coffee trees, while others argue that Ethiopia is home to the most flavorful varieties of Arabica beans. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. When it comes to processing methods, most experts agree that wet-processing results in higher quality beans than dry-processing. Wet-processing involves soaking the freshly picked coffee cherries in water before removing the fleshy fruit from the seed (or bean). This method allows for a more controlled fermentation process, which helps to develop complex flavors and aromas. There are two main types of roast levels: light and dark. Light roasts have a shorter roasting time and result in a lighter body and brighter acidity. Dark roasts have a longer roasting time and produce a fuller body with less acidity. Some people prefer light roasted coffees because they feel that it preserves more of the Bean's original flavor characteristics; others find dark roasted coffees to be more flavorful and aromatic. Again, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Finally, the grind size can also affect the quality of your cup of coffee. If the beans are ground too finely, they can become over-extracted and taste bitter; if they're ground too coarsely, they might not extract enough flavor from the bean leading to a weak cup of coffee. The best grind size for brewing depends on your brewing method - espresso requires a very fine grind while French press uses a coarse grind size. In conclusion, there is no definitive answer as to what constitutes the highest quality coffee bean - it all boils down (pun intended) to personal preferences!