The most expensive type of vanilla beans are typically the ones known as "Madagascar Bourbon vanilla beans" or simply "Madagascar vanilla beans." These beans are highly regarded for their superior quality and flavor profile, which includes a rich, creamy, and sweet taste with floral and fruity undertones.
Madagascar is one of the largest producers of vanilla globally, and its Bourbon vanilla beans are highly sought after in the culinary world. The term "Bourbon" in this context does not refer to the alcoholic beverage but rather originates from the former name of the island, which was Réunion, known as Île Bourbon during the French colonial period.