What is Sumatran coffee?

Everything you need to know about Sumatra Coffee 

Sumatran coffee is a distinctive and celebrated variety that captures the essence of Indonesia’s rich, diverse landscape. Grown on the lush volcanic slopes of the island of Sumatra, this coffee is known for its deep flavors, full-bodied richness, and unique low-acid profile.  

The island’s traditional processing methods, especially the wet-hulling technique, lend Sumatran coffee its signature smoothness and boldness, making it a favorite among coffee enthusiasts worldwide. In this blog, we’ll explore the origins, cultivation, and characteristics of Sumatran coffee and why it stands out in the global coffee scene. 

What is the flavor profile of Sumatra Coffee?  

Sumatran coffee is a bean sourced from the Indonesia island of Sumatra, known for its full body, low acidity and earthy flavor. Its flavor notes are commonly described as dark chocolate or tobacco. This unique taste is attributed to factors like Sumatran’s volcanic soil, high altitude and the wet-hulling process method commonly used in the area.  

Why are volcanic soils good for coffee growth? 

Volcanic soil and tropical climates are ideal for growing coffee beans. Volcanic soil is naturally rich in essential minerals like phosphorus, potassium, magnesium and calcium, all of which are crucial to healthy coffee plant development. Additionally, because volcanic soil is more permeable, it provides excellent drainage and prevents waterlogging.  

Of course, the island of Sumatra falls within the coffee belt as well — an area between the Tropics of Capricorn and Cancer where the vast majority of the world’s coffee is grown. These regions are known for tropical climates, rich soi, lots of rain and mild temperatures.  

Where can I find Sumatra Coffee?  

Sumatran coffee is commonly found in grocery stores as a single-origin option. Death Wish Coffee’s Espresso Roast and Valhalla Java blend also use Sumatran Arabica coffee beans to help add body to each roast, giving each blend a full, rich flavor that’s low in acidity. 

When seeking Sumatran coffee, or any type of coffee, is essential to look for indicators that speak to the quality of the beans. For instance, Organic and Fair Trade Certified™ indicate higher coffee quality since a premium is paid for that coffee given the standards it is grown against, which yield a premium product — and Death Wish Coffee only sources Organic and Fair Trade beans for our lineup of roasts. This ensures we provide the highest quality coffee beans while adhering to rigorous standards to protect the environment and the livelihoods of our farmers.

[Featured Image Source: Levi T. via Unsplash]