Indonesian
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
Local Coffee Customs
Economic Impact
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.
Roast Recommendations
- Medium-Dark Roast
- Dark Roast
Sustainability Practices
- Agroforestry systems
- Organic farming initiatives
- Fair trade partnerships
Traditional Preparation Methods
- Kopi Tubruk (Indonesian-style coffee)
- Kopi Luwak (civet coffee)
Typical Harvest Season
Typical Processing Methods
- Wet-hulled (Giling Basah)
- Washed
- Natural