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Sumatra is a very special place. It’s the only island in the world that’s shaped like a giant coffee bean. (Okay, we may have made that up.)
But what’s not up for debate is that Sumatra is home to some of the best coffee in the world. And if you’re looking for some of the best Sumatra coffee beans, you’ve come to the right place!
We’ve reviewed nine of our favorite Sumatran coffees. So whether you’re looking for a bold cup of coffee or something with a bit more complexity, we’ve got you covered.
And don’t worry – no matter what your taste preferences are, we’re sure you’ll love these beans!
Best Sumatra Coffee Beans
Sumatra is one of the four Greater Sunda Islands of Indonesia, and it was the Dutch who introduced coffee to Sumatra in 1699. However, large-scale production did not commence until 1884. Prior to this time, coffee plants were only found growing wild in Ethiopia.
The coffee plants prospered once they reached the fertile soil surrounding volcanic Lake Toba. This is often considered as the first inkling of today’s coffee industry. Now, Sumatra produces more coffee than any other Indonesian island.
If you love coffee, then you should definitely try Sumatran coffee. This type of coffee is known for its earthy, complex flavors and low acidity. As a result, it’s perfect for those who enjoy a rich, robust cup of coffee.
Additionally, Sumatran coffees are typically roasted to a dark or medium level, so they’re perfect for those who want a strong flavor without too much bitterness.
Our Top Picks
Copper Moon Sumatra Blend
We really enjoyed the Sumatra premium dark roast coffee! The Bold blend sourced from the remote reaches of Indonesia was a great choice.
We loved the unique smooth smoky character and herbal notes mixed with roasted almond and an earthy aroma. The Copper Moon Coffee whole bean is prepared in single batches and perfect for coffee lovers who prefer to grind at home for peak freshness.
We would definitely recommend this coffee to anyone looking for a great cup of coffee!
The Organic Coffee Co. Sumatra Mandheling Whole Bean Coffee
We thoroughly enjoyed the Organic Coffee Co. Sumatra Mandheling Whole Bean Coffee. It has a wonderfully rich, earthy flavor that we can’t get enough of.
We would definitely recommend this coffee to anybody looking for a truly unique and flavorful cup of joe.The Organic Coffee Co.’s Sumatra Mandheling coffee is a rich and flavorful Single Origin coffee that is sustainably farmed.
It is perfect for any coffee brewer and is sure to satisfy any coffee lover’s craving. This delicious coffee is grown on small farms in Indonesia and is carefully processed to ensure the highest quality.
The Rogers Family Company takes great pride in sourcing, roasting, and packaging the finest coffees available, and this Sumatra Mandheling coffee is no exception.
Java Planet Sumatra Organic
We really enjoyed the Java Planet Sumatra Organic coffee. It has a great dark roast flavor with chocolate notes and a smooth body. This is an excellent choice for hot or cold brew.
It is also certified organic and fair trade, which makes it a responsible choice. We would recommend this coffee to anyone looking for a great tasting dark roast.
Koffee Kult Sumatra Mandheling Coffee Beans
If you’re looking for a rich, smooth coffee with medium to heavy body, Koffee Kult’s Sumatra Mandheling is the perfect choice. This coffee is sourced from the jungles of Indonesia and roasted fresh to perfection on small batch roasters.
Every bag is roasted using a consistent profile, ensuring that you’ll always get the same great taste. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee lover or just getting started, Koffee Kult’s Sumatra Mandheling is sure to please.
Volcanica Sumatra Whole Bean
Volcanica Sumatra Whole Bean is one of the finest coffees we have had the pleasure of trying. It has a smooth chocolate flavor with earthy undertones, which makes it unique and unforgettable.
The full body and vibrant low-key acidity are also remarkable, making it a coffee that we would highly recommend to anyone. We promise that you will love this coffee!
Out of the Grey Sumatra Coffee
The Out of the Grey Sumatra Coffee is one of the best coffees we have ever had. It has a rich, chocolatey flavor with hints of caramel and a smooth body. This coffee is perfect for those who enjoy a strong cup of coffee without too much bitterness.
We would highly recommend this coffee to anyone looking for an amazing cup of coffee. You will not be disappointed!
Starbucks Whole Bean Coffee, Single-Origin Sumatra
We all know that Starbucks makes some of the best coffee in the world. And with this 12-ounce bag of Sumatra dark roast whole bean coffee, you can enjoy that same delicious flavor right at home.
This coffee is earthy and herbal, with bold flavors that will surely wake you up and get your day started off on the right foot. Plus, Starbucks adheres to the highest quality standards, so you can be sure that you’re getting the freshest coffee possible.
Whether you’re enjoying it at the start of a new day or as a reward at the end of a long one, this Starbucks whole bean coffee is sure to please.
Coffee Bean Direct Dark Sumatra Mandheling, Whole Bean Coffee
If you’re looking for a rich, earthy cup of coffee with a robust, dry finish, then the Dark Sumatra Mandheling from Coffee Bean Direct is perfect for you.
Whether you’re enjoying it iced, as cold brew, with a French press, AeroPress or pour over, you can expect peak flavor and aroma with this bean. It’s expertly roasted to perfection, so you can enjoy a jolt of caffeine along with a delicious cup of coffee.
The French Press Coffee Roasters Whole Bean Indonesian Sumatra Single Origin Coffee
If you’re looking for a complex and delicious coffee, the Indonesian Sumatra from French Press Coffee Roasters is perfect.
This coffee is dark roasted, meaning the beans have been roasted until they’re almost black, and it offers a spicy flavor with notes of tobacco and chocolate. It’s also low in acidity, making it a great choice for those who don’t like the bitter taste often associated with coffee.
Overall, this is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a unique and tasty coffee experience.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Find the Best Sumatra Coffee
You may be wondering what to anticipate and what to look for after taking a peek at our top 9 Sumatran coffee brands. Continue reading to learn everything there is to know about Sumatran beans.
About Sumatra Coffee
The first step in finding the best Sumatra coffee is understanding what it is. Sumatra coffee beans are grown on the island of Sumatra, Indonesia which is located east of mainland Asia and southwest of Australia. The island is quite large, measuring 171,062 square miles.
It’s important to note that not all coffee beans from Sumatra are the same. Depending on the region and elevation where they’re grown, they can have different flavor profiles. The three main types of Sumatra coffee are Mandheling, Lintong, and Gayo.
Mandheling coffee is named after the people in the Lake Toba region of Sumatra. These beans are typically wet-hulled which gives them a sweeter taste.
Lintong coffee is grown in the highlands of North Sumatra and has a more intense flavor.
Gayo coffee is grown in Aceh Province, which is located in the northwestern part of Sumatra. These beans have a floral aroma and sweet flavor.
Now that you know a little more about Sumatra coffee, let’s take a look at the factors you should consider when choosing the best beans for your needs.
Flavor Profile
As we mentioned earlier, the flavor of your coffee will vary depending on the region where the beans are grown. If you have a preferred flavor profile, make sure to choose beans from that specific region. For example, if you like a sweeter taste, Mandheling beans would be a good choice.
Keep in mind that the roasting process will also affect the flavor of your coffee. If you want a bolder flavor, opt for dark roast beans. If you prefer a milder taste, light roast beans would be a better choice.
It’s also important to note that the brewing method you use can impact the flavor of your coffee. For example, if you brew your coffee with a French press, the resulting cup will have a bolder flavor than if you brewed it using a drip coffee maker.
To sum it up, the flavor of your Sumatra coffee beans will depend on the region where they’re grown, the roasting level, and the brewing method you use. Make sure to keep these factors in mind when choosing beans for your next cup of coffee.
Acidity Level
The acidity level of coffee is measured on a scale of 0 to 14, with 0 being the lowest and 14 being the highest. The acidity level will impact the taste of your coffee, as well as the way it feels in your mouth.
Coffees with a higher acidity level will have a sharp, tangy flavor, while coffees with a lower acidity level will be smoother and more mellow. If you’re sensitive to acidic foods, you may want to choose coffee beans with a low acidity level.
Sumatran coffee is prized for its low acidity level. If you experience stomach pains or headaches from coffee, this low-acid variety may be ideal for you. It’s also gentler on teeth enamel, which can be damaged by frequent coffee consumption.
Because Sumatran beans are processed differently and are generally dark roast, they have less acidity than other types of coffee.
If you want a cup of coffee that’s easy on your stomach, Sumatra coffee may be the way to go.
Certifications
When choosing coffee beans, it’s important to look for certifications that ensure the beans were grown sustainably and ethically. Two common certifications to look for are Fair Trade and Rainforest Alliance.
Fair Trade certification ensures that farmers were paid a fair price for their coffee beans. This certification also requires that farms provide good working conditions and environmental standards.
Rainforest Alliance certification means that the coffee was grown in a way that conserves natural resources and supports the wellbeing of farm workers.
Coffee that carries either of these certifications is a good choice if you want to be sure your coffee beans were sourced sustainably.
Type of Process
There are two main types of coffee processing: natural and washed. Natural coffee beans are dried in the sun, while washed beans are soaked in water before they’re dried.
The type of processing used can impact the flavor of your coffee. Washed beans tend to have a cleaner taste, while natural beans often have a fruity flavor.
Sumatra coffee is typically made with natural beans, which contributes to its unique flavor profile. If you’re looking for a coffee with a fruity taste, Sumatra beans would be a good choice.
Now that you know a little more about Sumatra coffee, you’re ready to choose the perfect beans for your next cup. Keep these factors in mind, and you’ll be sure to find the perfect beans for your taste.
Conclusion
Sumatran coffee is readily available, but it comes in a variety of quality levels. We hope our comprehensive reviews of the nine best Sumatran coffee brands, as well as our brief guide to Sumatran coffee beans, will assist you in finding the distinct and complex tastes you’re looking for.
Sumatra coffee beans are a good choice if you’re looking for a coffee with a low acidity level and a unique, fruity flavor. Make sure to look for certifications like Fair Trade and Rainforest Alliance to ensure your beans were sourced sustainably.
With these factors in mind, you’re sure to find the perfect Sumatra coffee beans for your next cup.
We hope you enjoyed reading this article on the best Sumatra coffee. If so, please let us know in the comments below and share it with your friends! Thanks for reading!
Happy brewing! Happy sipping!
P.S. Be sure to check out our other coffee-related articles for more information, as well as more tips and tricks on making the perfect cup of joe and to learn “All About That Coffee!”