What makes Kintamani arabica special?
Kintamani Arabica coffee is renowned for its unique combination of geographical and cultural factors. Grown in the volcanic highlands around Mount Batur, it benefits from fertile Andosol soils and a cool tropical climate, typical of elevations around 1,000-1,500+ meters. The traditional Subak Abian cooperative system, rooted in the Tri Hita Karana philosophy, ensures harmony in production practices. A standout feature of Kintamani coffee is its intercropping with citrus trees, which contributes to its hallmark bright, citrus-like flavor. This distinctive agronomic approach, alongside the volcanic terroir, is widely recognized as a defining characteristic of Kintamani coffee. The specialty grade, with SCA scores typically in the low-to-mid 80s, further highlights its quality, with a flavor profile noted for its clean cup, lively citrus-like acidity, and smooth body.
Does Kintamani coffee have a Geographical Indication?
Yes, Kintamani Bali Arabica coffee holds a Geographical Indication (GI), making it Indonesia’s first coffee to receive such recognition. Registered in 2008, the GI status ensures that the coffee’s origin and quality standards are preserved. The GI protection covers coffee grown in the highlands surrounding Mount Batur, primarily in Bangli Regency, northern Bali. The Subak Abian cooperatives adhere to the GI quality rules, which emphasize sustainable and traditional farming practices linked to the Tri Hita Karana philosophy. The GI status not only safeguards the authenticity of Kintamani coffee but also supports the local farming communities by promoting their unique cultural and agricultural heritage. This recognition is managed by the Ministry of Law and Human Rights in Indonesia, ensuring that only coffee meeting specific criteria can be labeled as Kintamani Bali Arabica.
What does Kintamani arabica taste like?
Kintamani Arabica coffee is celebrated for its bright, lively citrus-like acidity and clean, smooth flavor profile. It offers a high clarity cup with distinctive citrus/orange/lemon and fruity notes, reflecting the unique volcanic terroir and intercropping with citrus trees. The body is typically light-to-medium, providing a balanced and refreshing coffee experience. Specialty-grade Kintamani lots, which consistently score in the low-to-mid 80s on the SCA scale, are highly regarded for their vibrant taste and aromatic complexity. This flavor profile, while indicative, is not officially mandated by the GI but is widely recognized and appreciated by specialty coffee buyers and consumers alike. The combination of careful processing and the unique growing environment contributes to the coffee’s distinctive taste.
What processing methods do you offer?
Our offerings include a range of processing methods to cater to specialty coffee buyers. While the GI emphasizes careful wet/washed processing, which involves pulping, fermentation, washing, and controlled drying, we also provide natural and honey-processed lots. These alternative processing methods are popular among specialty buyers seeking diverse flavor profiles. By working closely with Subak Abian cooperatives, we ensure that each processing method adheres to high-quality standards. The choice of processing can significantly impact the coffee’s final flavor, with washed processes typically producing a cleaner cup and natural/honey processes offering more fruit-forward notes. These methods are not GI-mandated but are available through our exporter offerings, allowing buyers to select the process that best suits their preferences and market demands.
What is your MOQ and how is the coffee packed?
Our minimum order quantity (MOQ) is flexible to accommodate a variety of buyers, ranging from a few 60kg bags via consolidators to full container loads. A 20ft container typically holds approximately 18-19 tons of 60kg bags. Our standard packaging includes 60kg jute bags with GrainPro-type hermetic inner liners for specialty lots, ensuring the coffee’s freshness and quality during transit. For smaller microlots, we offer packaging in 30-35kg bags. This flexible approach allows us to serve both small-scale specialty roasters and larger importers effectively. By maintaining high packaging standards, we ensure that our coffee reaches international buyers in optimal condition, preserving its unique flavor profile and quality.
Which Incoterms and ports do you ship from?
We commonly operate under FOB (Free on Board) terms, with Surabaya’s Tanjung Perak port serving as the primary shipping point. Logistics are coordinated from Bali to ensure efficient export operations. While FOB is the standard baseline, we are open to negotiating other Incoterms such as CIF, CFR, or EXW, depending on the buyer’s preferences and requirements. Bali’s port infrastructure is limited, so direct FOB Denpasar is not typically feasible. By offering flexible shipping terms and utilizing a major Indonesian port, we ensure that our coffee reaches international destinations efficiently and reliably. Buyers can discuss specific shipping needs with us to determine the best logistical arrangements for their situation.
What certifications and documents can you provide?
We provide a comprehensive suite of certifications and documents to meet international trade requirements. This includes GI confirmation for Kintamani Bali Arabica, lot-specific SCA cupping scores, and phytosanitary certificates issued by Indonesia’s agricultural health authorities. We also comply with ICO export-code regulations. Additionally, organic, fair-trade, and sustainability certifications are available from specific certified cooperatives/exporters, although they are not mandatory under the GI. It is important to note that these certifications should only be claimed when a valid certificate exists. Our commitment to transparency and quality ensures that all necessary documentation accompanies our coffee shipments, allowing buyers to confidently and compliantly import our specialty coffee.
Can I order samples before committing to a lot?
Yes, we understand the importance of evaluating coffee quality before making a purchase decision. Therefore, we offer samples to potential buyers. These samples allow roasters and importers to assess the coffee’s flavor profile, quality, and suitability for their specific needs. We encourage interested buyers to request samples, which can be tailored to showcase different processing methods or specific lots. By providing samples, we aim to build trust and ensure that our coffee meets the expectations of our international clients. This approach not only facilitates informed purchasing decisions but also fosters long-term partnerships with specialty coffee buyers worldwide.