Who hasn’t heard of Indonesia? Known for its rich natural resources and vibrant cultural heritage, Indonesia is also renowned for producing some of the world’s finest coffee.
From various coffee-producing areas, the country presents several varieties that are distinctive and intriguing to try. So, which Indonesia coffee regions produce the best coffee?
In this article, we will present some information about Indonesian coffee, from its history and processing to some of the best Indonesian coffee recommendations!
Table of Contents
Indonesia: One of the Best Coffee Producers in the World
Producing millions of tons of coffee each year, it’s no surprise that Indonesia ranks among the top 5 coffee producers globally. These products are then exported to various countries, such as Japan, USA, United Kingdom, and Germany.
Now, why do Indonesian coffees excel in the international market? The reason is their unique and diverse flavor profiles, which are based on the geographical factors where they are produced: altitude, soil type, and tropical climate.
Also read: Getting to Know Green Coffee Beans by Region Map
History of Indonesian Coffee
Coffee plants were only introduced by the Dutch in the 17th century. They brought Arabica coffee plants to the island of Batavia (Jakarta) as one of the commodities required in the forced planting system.
Around the 18th century, this plant began to be planted on the islands of Java, Sumatra, and Sulawesi. Today, the coffee plant has been cultivated with heritage techniques for generations.
Combined with modern innovation, Indonesia produces quality coffee products that dominate the global market.
Indonesian Coffee Production
There are several types of coffee produced in Indonesia, namely Arabica, Robusta, and Liberica. Arabica coffee is generally grown in the mountains with an altitude of 1,000 meters above sea level, while Robusta coffee is grown in the lowlands.
During the production process, farmers also use several different techniques, such as wet hulling in Sumatra and dry processing in Flores. This is also a factor in creating coffee with a unique flavor!
Also read: Kopi Luwak Coffee Production: How It Is Made?
The Selling Process of Indonesian Coffee
Indonesian coffee is sold in several places, ranging from local markets to international exports. This process also involves many parties-from farmers, cooperatives, to large companies.
Most Indonesian coffee is sold in the form of raw bean products, but there are also semi-processed products that have their enthusiasts, such as packaged coffee.
Indonesia Coffee Regions Map
Indonesia, often called the coffee archipelago, has five regions known for producing top-quality coffee: Sumatra, Java, Sulawesi, Bali, and Flores.
1. Sumatra
Sumatra, often seen as the flagship of Indonesian coffee production, is renowned for its Mandheling, Gayo, and Lintong varieties. These coffees are known for their earthy flavor profile, thick texture, and subtle spicy aftertaste.
Sumatran coffee often undergoes a wet-hulled processing method, which contributes to its lower acidity and slightly creamy texture. This unique process makes Sumatran coffee ideal for espresso, offering a rich and smooth experience.
The popularity of Sumatran coffee among international baristas highlights the fascinating qualities of this region’s coffee varieties, both as blends and single-origin offerings.
2. Java
Java isn’t just celebrated for its rich culture and history, it’s also renowned for producing some of the finest Arabica coffee, including the famous Java coffee.
This coffee variety offers a smooth flavor profile, highlighted by delightful hints of chocolate and caramel. Its incredibly fragrant aroma elevates the experience, providing an extraordinary and memorable coffee moment.
The main areas that produce quality coffee here include Ijen, Temanggung and Bondowoso. In fact, coffee from Java also likes to be processed into the interesting Mocha Java coffee blend.
3. Sulawesi
The Sulawesi region, especially Toraja, is known as one of Indonesia coffee regions that produce beans with complex flavors and balanced acidity.
Toraja coffee has an enticing floral aroma with a slightly sweet and pleasant flavor profile! This flavor is due to its traditional cultivation, which prioritizes the quality of the coffee beans.
4. Bali
In addition to its stunning beaches, Bali offers a delightful coffee experience. In the highlands of Kintamani, you can explore the region’s rich history as a producer of high-quality Arabica coffee.
Sampling the specialty coffees from Kintamani will give you a taste of the unique flavors and aromas that make this region’s coffee so exceptional.
Kintamani coffee has attracted the attention of coffee lovers because of its slightly citrusy flavor, thanks to the blend of coffee trees with citrus plants around the plantation.
Besides being environmentally friendly, this coffee-growing technique produces coffee with bright and fresh flavor characteristics!
Also read: From Bean to Cup: Discovering the Art of Brewing Bali Kintamani Coffee
5. Flores
The last region is the island of Flores, especially the Bajawa region. This place is known for producing coffee with complex flavors, especially with the aftertaste of chocolate, spices, and flowery.
Its thick body and mellow flavor make it perfect for a warm and relaxing cup of coffee.
Some of The Famous Indonesian Coffee!
Having explored the coffee regions of Indonesia, it’s only fitting to discuss some of its popular coffee varieties, including Luwak coffee, Java coffee, Sumatra Mandheling, Aceh Gayo, and Toraja coffee.
1. Luwak Coffee
There’s a reason why Luwak coffee is the most expensive coffee variety in the world. Apart from its unique digestive process, Luwak coffee offers a smooth and distinctive taste.
2. Java Coffee
Next up is Java coffee, which is the raw material for the Mocha Java coffee blend. The flavor characteristics are sweet and mellow with low acidity.
Usually, this coffee is processed into espresso because of its thick texture and not-too-bitter taste.
3. Sumatra Mandheling
Have you ever tried or heard of Sumatra Mandheling? This coffee from the Mandailing Natal region in North Sumatra offers a bold flavor with an earthy aroma.
It’s worth noting that this Sumatra Mandheling comes as one of the most famous Arabica coffees from Indonesia!
4. Aceh Gayo
The next coffee variety is Gayo coffee from Aceh. This coffee is one of the best coffees cultivated in the highlands of the Central Aceh region.
With complex flavors, this coffee has medium acidity and a slightly sweet aftertaste.
5. Toraja Gayo
Last but not least is Toraja coffee, a premium Indonesian coffee with a bold and complex flavor profile. Despite this, the aroma is very appealing as it resembles floral.
Coupled with balanced acidity and a whole body, this coffee delivers a satisfying coffee experience!
Explore the uniqueness of Indonesian coffee!
These are some of the Indonesia coffee regions that you need to know about. With many quality coffee commodities, the country has managed to become famous for providing coffee with unique and unparalleled flavors.
Interested in trying some of the famous coffees mentioned above? You can find them all on the website of FnB Coffee, one of the best Indonesian coffee exporters.
Here, we provide a variety of quality coffee from Indonesia, both Arabica and Robusta, with various flavors and aromas that are sure to arouse your taste buds.
Of the several types available, we export these best coffees from the best coffee supply areas, from Sumatra to Papua. What are you waiting for? Experience the magic of Indonesian flavors in every sip!
