Indonesia, a land of captivating landscapes and diverse cultures, is also the birthplace of an extraordinary coffee experience – Luwak Coffee. Often referred to as the “caviar of coffee,” Luwak coffee is a unique and coveted brew that has captured the fascination of coffee connoisseurs worldwide. In this blog post, we delve into the mystery, production, and unparalleled taste of this exceptional Indonesian coffee.
The Tale of Luwak Coffee
Luwak coffee’s story is one of nature’s surprising gifts. The coffee cherries are consumed by a civet, a small mammal resembling a cat, and later excreted. The beans within the cherries remain undigested, and it is from this unusual source that Luwak coffee is derived. The civet’s digestive enzymes interact with the coffee beans, transforming the chemical composition. This unique fermentation process is credited with giving Luwak coffee its distinct flavour profile.
The Art of Luwak Coffee Production
Skilled coffee farmers meticulously select the ripest coffee cherries, ensuring only the highest quality beans are processed. After the civet has enjoyed its coffee cherry feast and the beans are naturally fermented in its digestive tract, the beans are collected from the civet’s excrement. The beans are thoroughly cleaned, with great care taken to ensure their hygiene. They are then processed and roasted to perfection.
The Taste of Luwak Coffee
Luwak coffee boasts a complex flavour profile. It is known for its low acidity, full body, and a unique blend of earthy, nutty, and chocolaty notes. This combination creates a coffee experience that is truly one of a kind. It’s crucial to ensure that Luwak coffee is produced using ethical and sustainable methods. Some unscrupulous producers have raised concerns about the treatment of civets, so supporting ethical sources is vital.
The most expensive coffee in the world
Not only is Luwak coffee interesting because of its production and the whole process, but the price is also something that catches the eye of many. Our driver told us he heard in parts of Europe a cup of Luwak coffee can fetch up to €700, but I think that might be a bit of a stretch. The more realistic figure is around £30 to £100 for one cup of Luwak coffee! Crazy, but true!
Luwak coffee, with its intriguing origin and distinctive taste, offers a unique coffee experience that’s worth savouring. Exploring the world of Luwak coffee is not just about enjoying a cup of coffee but also understanding the delicate balance between nature, sustainability, and the pursuit of exceptional flavours. As you embark on your coffee journey in Indonesia, don’t miss the opportunity to savour the liquid gold that is Luwak coffee, a testament to the country’s rich coffee heritage.
