Indonesian Coffee: A Guide to Rich, Earthy Flavors from the Archipelago

Indonesia is home to Kopi Luwak, one of the world's most expensive coffees, made from beans partially digested and excreted by Asian palm civets.

Indonesian coffee is renowned for its full body, rich flavor, and low acidity. The unique wet-hulling process used in many regions contributes to its distinct earthy, woody, and sometimes spicy notes. Each island offers its own flavor profile, from the heavy-bodied Sumatran to the cleaner, brighter Javanese coffees. Indonesian coffees are prized for their complexity and exotic character, making them a favorite among specialty coffee enthusiasts.

History

Coffee was introduced to Indonesia by Dutch colonists in the late 17th century. The Dutch East India Company first planted coffee trees on Java island, which quickly became a major coffee producer. As cultivation spread to other islands like Sumatra and Sulawesi, each region developed its own unique processing methods and flavor profiles. Despite setbacks like coffee leaf rust in the 1870s, Indonesia has maintained its position as one of the world's top coffee producers, known for its distinctive and sought-after beans.

Indonesian

Accidity:

Low to Medium

Body:

Full

Country:

Indonesia

Climate:

Tropical, with high humidity and abundant rainfall

Cupping Score:

84.5

Region:

Sumatra, Java, Sulawesi, Bali

Soil Type:

Volcanic, rich in minerals and organic matter

Typical Altitude:

1000 - 2000m

Annual Production:

760,000 metric tons

Export Volume:

400,000 metric tons

Market Share:

Indonesia is the world's fourth-largest coffee producer, accounting for approximately 7% of global coffee production.

Local Coffee Customs

In Indonesia, coffee is often served strong and sweet. 'Kopi Tubruk' is a popular method where ground coffee is boiled with sugar, creating a thick, potent brew. Coffee shops called 'warung kopi' are social hubs where people gather to drink coffee and socialize.

Economic Impact

Coffee plays a crucial role in Indonesia's economy, providing livelihoods for millions of smallholder farmers. It's a significant export commodity, contributing to foreign exchange earnings and rural development. The growing specialty coffee sector is creating new opportunities for farmers to increase their incomes.

Awards

Cup of Excellence (2021)

Brewing Methods

French Press
Pour-over
Cold Brew

Certifications

Rainforest Alliance
UTZ Certified
Organic

Common Varieties

Typica
Bourbon
Catimor

Flavor Profile

Earthy
Woody
Spicy
Dark chocolate
Tobacco

Popular Brands & Roasters

Starbucks Reserve
Blue Bottle Coffee
Intelligentsia Coffee
Volcanica Coffee

Tourism & Culture

Many Indonesian coffee regions offer farm tours and cupping experiences. Visitors can explore the lush coffee plantations of Bali, witness the traditional wet-hulling process in Sumatra, or visit the historic Javanese estates. Some popular destinations include the Kintamani region in Bali and the Gayo Highlands in Sumatra.

Future Outlook

Indonesian coffee continues to gain popularity in the specialty coffee market. There's a growing focus on improving quality and traceability, with more farmers adopting sustainable practices and experimenting with processing methods. Climate change poses challenges, but adaptation efforts and the development of disease-resistant varieties show promise for the industry's future.