What is vanilla?
True vanilla flavor comes from the cured seed pod (bean) of the vanilla orchid. The properly prepared pod contains vanillin and 100's of other flavor compounds. Vanilla orchids are the only orchids that produce an edible seed. The primary producers of vanilla beans are tropical areas: Madagascar, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea.

Planifolia vs Tahitensis vanilla
There are two distinct types of vanilla orchid:

Vanilla Planifolia beans have a strong, familiar vanilla flavor, it is often called ‘Madagascar Bourbon’. Planifolia is the same variety grown in Mexico, but now synonymous with Madagascar.

Vanilla Tahitensis is a weaker vanilla with ‘fruity, floral, and sweet’ flavors created by the compound heliotropin. Tahitensis is a mutated form of a planifolia orchid from Tahiti, though most tahitensis vanilla is now grown in Papa New Guinea. This vanilla is favored by pastry chefs.

Grade ‘A’ vs grade ‘B’ vanilla beans
Grade ‘A’ vanilla beans, also called gourmet or prime, are oily and moist. This vanilla is visually attractive so it can be a feature ingredient in gourmet cuisine.
    
Grade ‘B’ vanilla beans, also called extract beans, are less moist and less attractive. don’t worry, because the flavor isn’t in the water.

Countries of origin
 Madagascar
"The classic vanilla', Madagascar Vanilla Beans come from the Island of Madagascar. Madagascar Vanilla Beans are superior, with flavor and aromatic qualities that make these beans the most popular and sought after vanilla variety. These are well suited for many baking recipes, drinks and desserts.
Length: approx. 6-8.5 inches
Color: Blackish Brown
Place of Origin: Madagascar
Botanical Name: Vanilla Planifolia (BOURBON)
Fragrance: Strong full rich Vanilla aroma                                                            Flavor: heavy vanilla with wood, oil and leather undertones.

 Mexico
The flavor of Mexican vanilla is very similar to Madagascar vanilla. You’ll notice that the smooth, creamy and spicy flavors of these beans are absolutely delightful. We can assure you that these are not only the best vanilla beans that we offer, but probably the best in the world! They are perfect for many baked goods, so try them in crème sauces, ice cream, and other wonderful desserts or recipes.
Length: approx. 6-8 inches
Color: Very Dark Brown/Black
Place of Origin: Mexico
Botanical Name: Vanilla Planifolia (BOURBON)
Fragrance: Spicy/Rich and Intense
Flavor: Creamy, sweet, smooth, and spicy

 Bourbon Islands                                                                                              Bourbon Vanilla has a traditional flavor and is the most popular type of vanilla. Bourbon vanilla comes from the fruit of an orchid variety called Vanilla Planifolia and is rich in the natural organic compound called vanillin. Bourbon beans have a creamy, sweet, smooth and mellow flavor. Use Bourbon vanilla for applications that require a traditional vanilla flavor.
Length: Approx. 6-7 inches
Color: Black                                                                                                    Place of Origin: Papua New Guinea
Botanical Name: Vanilla Planifolia (BOURBON)
Fragrance: Strong rich vanilla aroma                                                                 Flavor: mellow, creamy, sweet & smooth

 India
Indian vanilla beans are very similar to Madagascar vanilla. These gourmet grade vanilla beans are HUGE and contain a very large abundance of seeds. Many will contest that the sweet woodsy flavor profile of these beans are superior to that of the Bourbon-Madagascar variety. India is fast emerging as a major vanilla producer and vanilla beans cultivated in some parts of India are of the world’s best! You will not find such high quality vanilla from India anywhere else. We take great pride in being able to offer such wonderful beans.
Length: approx. 6-7 inches
Color: Dark Brown, almost Black
Place of Origin: India
Botanical Name: Vanilla Planifolia (BOURBON)
Fragrance: Strong full rich Vanilla aroma
Flavor: same as madagascar but sweeter 

 Tahiti
Tahitian Vanilla beans are generally shorter, plumper, and contain a much higher oil and water content than Bourbon beans. The aroma is flowery, fruity and anisic with a smooth flavor. They are often described as smelling like licorice, cherries, or wine. Gourmet and pastry chefs love to work with the Tahitensis variety, which is perfect for many applications. Our Tahitian Beans are A-Grade and will suit all your baking needs.
Length: approx. 6-7 inches
Color: Black, Very Dark Brown
Place of Origin: Papua New Guinea
Botanical Name: Vanilla Tahitensis (TAHITIAN)
Fragrance: Fruity and floral                                                                            Flavor: sweet, fruity and floral  

There are many more countries that are now producing vanilla including the United States (Hawaii).

For more information about Vanilla click on the links below.

Vanilla Orchid Growing

Vanilla Report

"Taste the vanilla, taste the difference."

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