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Origin : Raja Sumatra, Indonesia
Process : Wet-Hulling
Roast : Dark
Notes : Chocolate, Sweet Cedar, and Pepper
Harvest : September to December

Displays intense sweet tones of chocolate, dried fruit, and other herbal spice-based flavors such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom. It is known for its earthy flavors, medium to heavy body, and wine-like acidity.

One of the unique aspects of coffee production in Sumatra, Indonesia, and the source of Indonesian coffee's deeply divisive taste, is the traditional post-harvest process of ‘Giling Basah’ (wet-hulling) method. The harvested coffee cherries are de-pulped by hand and dried on a patio for a few days. When the beans are semi-dried, containing around 30% to 50% moisture, it is passed on to a collector who puts them through a hulling machine while the beans are still moist to then finally set them on patios to dry for a couple more days. This hybrid process combines elements of the washed and natural processes. It significantly reduces the acidity of the coffee, and seems to increase its body too, creating a softer, rounder, heavier-bodied cup of coffee.

In Sumatra, coffees are grown at high elevations - above 1,350 meters above sea level, to slow the growing process to allow the plant more time to deliver nutrients and minerals to the coffee beans. This fuels the process of developing a fuller, robust flavor in Sumatran coffee.

Coffee was brought to Indonesia in the late 1600s by Dutch traders and colonialists. Being a nation of thousands of islands, it was first grown in an island called Java which is home to the city, Jakarta. Many plantations were developed all around the city by 1699 and began the first major commercial export by 1711. Java became one of the biggest coffee producers in the world. Not long after Sumatra had a booming industry as well as dozens of other smaller islands.

Dessert Complements

Thanks to its spicy, herbal flavor and rich smooth texture. Sumatran coffee makes a wonderful pairing with sweet and creamy desserts such as a creme brulee, banana pudding, or a new york cheesecake. Like wine, it pairs well with savory foods such as cheese and meats.