Bali Coffee: Types, Taste, and Where To Buy
Updated - Team Colipse
Bali coffee is from the Indonesian island of Bali. Balinese coffee beans are mainly Arabica, but they also grow Robusta. Some famous types are Blue Moon and Kintamani, and Kopi Luwak (civet coffee). Balinese coffee production involves harvesting cherries, pulping and fermenting the beans, drying them, hulling them, roasting them, and grinding them. Balinese coffee has a balanced, smooth taste with low acidity. Flavors include chocolate, caramel, citrus, spices, and earthy or fruity undertones. To choose the best Bali coffee beans, start by considering roast level, processing method, flavor profile, and freshness, with options ranging from light roasts for fruity notes to medium-dark roasts for chocolatey richness. The best Balinese coffee beans are directly from farms, local markets, or specialty brands like Colipse online. When visiting Bali, you can purchase coffee beans directly from plantations or cooperatives, at local markets, or specialty coffee shops.
What is Bali Coffee?
Bali coffee refers to coffee beans grown and processed in Bali, an Indonesian island east of Java. This Indonesian province is known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and for producing some of the world's most famous coffee beans. Bali coffee is primarily Arabica varieties such as Bourbon, Typica, Catimor, and S795, and Robusta beans. Some famous types of Balinese coffee are Kopi Luwak, or civet coffee, which is a rare, expensive coffee. It is made from beans eaten and excreted by the Asian palm civet. Other varieties grown in Bali include Lanang/Peaberry, Cascara, and Catimor.
Balinese coffee is famous for its diverse processing methods that shape its unique flavor profiles. The wet-hulled process, called Giling Basah, removes the cherry's outer skin, ferments the bean, and partially dries it before hulling, giving it a distinct bluish-green color and an earthy flavor. Balinese coffee beans are grown on 24,721 hectares of plantations and contribute substantially to Indonesia's coffee production. Kintamani is Bali's largest coffee-producing region. Bali produced 6,900 tons of Arabica and 8,100 tons of Robusta in 2014.
Where is Coffee Grown in Bali?
Coffee in Bali is primarily grown in the Kintamani region, a highland area located between the volcanoes of Mount Batukaru and Mount Agung. This region is located in the central part of the island and is known for its rich volcanic soil, high altitudes ranging from 1,200 to 1,700 meters above sea level, and ideal climate for coffee cultivation. Other important coffee-growing regions include Pupuan, Bangli, Auman, Angsri, and Pelodoe. The Kintamani Highlands are considered to be the home of the best coffee Bali has to offer. The total coffee growing area in Bali is an estimated 247.21 square kilometers.
What are the Different Types of Coffee Grown in Bali?
Bali produces a variety of coffees, including Arabica (primarily in Kintamani), Robusta (in lower-lying areas like Buleleng), and specialty types like Blue Moon, known for its blue-green beans, and Kintamani coffee, featuring citrusy notes thanks to the volcanic soil and high altitude. One famous specialty coffee is Kopi Luwak, also known as civet coffee. The five different types of Balinese specialty coffee listed below.
- Bali Blue Moon Coffee
- Bali Kintamani Coffee
- Bali Poop Coffee
- Robusta Bali Coffee
- Bali Mount Batur Coffee
1. Bali Blue Moon Coffee
Blue Moon coffee is a specialty coffee known for its unique flavor and blue-green unroasted beans. Bali Blue Moon coffee is grown in the Kintamani highlands of Bali, Indonesia. This region is known for its volcanic soil, high altitude, and tropical climate, which give the coffee its unique qualities. The Balinese blue moon coffee beans, mainly Arabica varieties like Bourbon, Typica, and Catimor, are processed using the wet-hulled method (Giling Basah). This involves depulping, briefly fermenting, partially drying, and hulling the cherries. The name "Blue Moon" is sometimes shorthand for "Bali Blue Moon" or used in place of "Bali Krishna".
2. Bali Kintamani Coffee
Bali Kintamani coffee is a specialty coffee processed using the traditional wet-hulled method. Bali Kintamani coffee grows in the Bangli Regency highlands in Bali, Indonesia, at altitudes of 1,200–1,700 meters, intercropped with citrus trees. Bali Kintamani coffee is known for its bright acidity and citrusy notes, often featuring flavors of lemon or orange. Bali Kintamani coffee farmers use the Subak Abian farming method. This method, based on the Hindu philosophy of "Tri Hita Karana," promotes harmony with God, people, and the environment. Farmers use sustainable, organic practices, including shade-grown techniques and hand-picking cherries.
3. Bali Poop Coffee
Bali poop coffee, or Kopi Luwak, is a rare, pricey coffee from Bali and Indonesia. Bali poop coffee made using coffee beans eaten and then excreted by civets. This rare process makes Kopi Luwak the most expensive coffee in Bali. The civets' digestion ferments the beans, giving the coffee a smooth, mild flavor with hints of caramel or chocolate. Although Robusta is commonly used for Kopi Luwak, a 2021 study in Foods Journal showed wild civets prefer the sweeter Coffea liberica. Researchers believe the unique Kopi Luwak flavor comes from this preferred bean and the civet's selection of the best cherries, not digestion. However, the popularity of Kopi Luwak has raised ethical concerns as wild civets are often caged and force-fed coffee cherries. Purchasing Kopi Luwak from ethical sources ensures humane civet treatment. Kopi Luwak in Bali is also known as Mongoose coffee, cat poop coffee, or animal coffee.
4. Robusta Bali Coffee
Robusta Bali coffee is a distinct variety grown in Bali at lower altitudes (700–1,200 meters above sea level) in areas like Buleleng, Pupuan, and Kintamani Highlands. Buleleng farmers use traditional intercropping, planting Robusta coffee with other crops to maintain soil fertility and ecological balance. The region's fertile volcanic soil and tropical climate are ideal for growing robusta coffee. It is a hardy species that resists pests and diseases better than Arabica, thriving in tough environments. Bali's Robusta offers over 400 potential varieties. It has bold, earthy, nutty, and chocolate flavors with low acidity, strong bitterness, and a full body.
5. Bali Mount Batur Coffee
Bali Mount Batur Coffee is a specialty coffee cultivated on the volcanic slopes of Mount Batur in Bali, Indonesia. "Mount Batur" is a term used to denote a regional coffee rather than a specific species. The fertile volcanic soil and high elevation create ideal growing conditions. Coffee plants are traditionally intercropped with orange trees, taro, and cassava, which contribute to its unique flavor. Bali Mount Batur Coffee has aromatic and herbal notes, like lemon leaves and sweet marzipan, with a dusted-cocoa finish. This creates a balanced and flavorful coffee.
What Does Balinese Coffee Taste Like?
Balinese coffee offers diverse and complex flavors, varying by region, processing, and variety. It is generally well-balanced, with a clean, smooth, and velvety texture. Many Balinese coffees feature low acidity, though some have bright or citrusy notes.
Bali coffee flavor profile commonly include chocolate, caramel, citrus, and spices, alongside earthy or fruity undertones. Some coffees have nutty and floral flavors, like vanilla, maple syrup, and juniper. Regional variations create diverse flavors: Kintamani coffee tastes citrusy and floral, Bali Blue Moon has chocolate and vanilla notes with a creamy body, and Pupuan coffee offers hints of chocolate and caramel.
How to Make Balinese Coffee?
To prepare Balinese coffee, start by selecting a brewing method and always use fresh coffee beans. One popular traditional method is called Kopi Tubruk. It involves a simple process of mixing finely ground coffee with sugar, pouring boiling water over the mixture, and letting it settle before drinking. The following steps shows how to make Balinese coffee using the traditional Kopi Tubruk method.
- Boil Water: Heat fresh, filtered water in a pot or kettle to a boil (212°F/100°C). Avoid a rolling boil, as this can make the coffee taste flat. Some Balinese coffee brewing methods involve moving the boiling water kettle between stoves.
- Prepare Coffee Grounds: Use 1-2 tablespoons of finely ground Balinese coffee per cup. The coffee should be ground to a flour-like consistency. Some recommend a medium-coarse grind. Adjust the coffee amount to your preference.
- Pour Water: Carefully pour boiling water over the coffee grounds, filling the mug almost to the top. The water must be very hot.
- Add Sugar (Optional): Add sugar if you like. Traditionally, Balinese people use twice as much sugar as coffee powder. Add condensed milk now, if using.
- Let Grounds Settle: Stir the coffee and water. Let it sit for 3-5 minutes so the grounds settle. Wait about 3 minutes before stirring. To help the grounds sink, add a little cold water before drinking.
- Enjoy: Sip your coffee slowly, being careful not to stir up the grounds at the bottom. Don't drink the last bit with the grounds. Throw away the remaining coffee grounds.
How to Choose the Best Coffee Beans from Bali?
The following steps shows how to choose the best coffee beans from Bali.
- Determine the Roast Level: Roast levels range from light to dark, each with unique flavor profiles. Light roasts highlight acidity and fruity or floral notes. Medium roasts balance acidity with chocolatey and nutty flavors. The popular medium-dark roasts offer molasses and chocolate notes with low acidity. Dark roasts have intense, smoky flavors but may hide the unique characteristics of the beans.
- Understand the Processing Method: Wet-hulled processing creates a full-bodied coffee with earthy and spicy flavors, washed processing results in a clean and bright flavor, and natural processing leads to fruit-forward and complex flavors.
- Assess the Flavor Profile: Look for chocolate, caramel, spices, and earthy tones, along with possible hints of citrus, vanilla, or nuts. Expect low-to-medium acidity and a rich body.
- Prioritize Freshness and Sourcing: Choose freshly roasted whole beans from ethical sources, ideally roasted within the last week. Consider beans from regions like Kintamani for bright acidity and floral notes, or Pupuan for a robust, earthy flavor.
Where to Buy Bali Coffee?
Bali coffee is sold in many places in Bali and online. In Bali, you can buy it directly from farms, local markets, and specialty coffee shops. Online, you can buy Bali coffee beans from specialty coffee brands, like Colipse. Our Bali Blue Moon offers a taste of paradise with its rich molasses notes, creamy texture, and hints of orange peel, juniper, and Dutch chocolate. Subscribe to our Bali Blue Moon coffee subscription for regular deliveries of freshly roasted beans.
Where to Buy Coffee Beans when Visiting Bali?
You can purchase Bali coffee beans directly from plantations or cooperatives, at local markets, or from specialty coffee shops like Seniman Coffee Studio and Expat Roasters. Online options include retailers like Amazon or roasters such as RhoadsRoast Coffees and Milwaukee Coffee Co. When buying, consider freshness, bean type (Arabica or Robusta), roast level, and the processing method for the best experience.
What are the Best Coffee Plantations to Visit in Bali?
The following list shows some of the best coffee plantations in Bali that you can visit.
- Bali Pulina Coffee Plantation is a popular destination for those seeking to discover Balinese coffee culture and see the coffee production process from cultivation to roasting.
- Tegallalang Rice Terrace and Coffee Plantation is another popular spot where you can experience the beautiful landscape of Bali while learning about coffee production.
- The Kintamani Organic Coffee Farm is a well-known location, and the Kintamani region is known for its high-quality Arabica beans.
- Satria Agrowisata is a coffee plantation that provides an opportunity to taste local coffee and learn about the island’s agriculture.
- Kumulilir Coffee Plantation also provides a tasting experience, allowing you to explore the rich coffee heritage of Bali.
- Many of these plantations offer tours, coffee tastings, and workshops, making them a great way to learn more about Balinese coffee and enjoy the island’s natural beauty.
How Does Bali Coffee Compare to Other Indonesian Coffees?
Bali coffee is unique among Indonesian coffees due to its processing methods, bright flavor profiles, and the specific growing conditions on the island. Wet-hulled processing, or giling basah, imparts a stout body and bluish hue to the beans. Bali coffee has brighter, citrusy flavors than other Indonesian coffees, like the earthier Sumatran and Java varieties. Its limited supply, Geographic Indicator certification, and popularity make it a premium coffee.