In the amazing and unique world of coffee, there is a type of coffee bean that is called the most prominent and expensive coffee in Indonesia. Gayo coffee is an Arabica coffee variety that is the leading coffee commodity from the Highlands of the Central Aceh region of Sumatra Island, Indonesia. This area is the biggest producer of Arabica coffee beans in Asia. Here we will talk about the geographic and climate background, the coffee bean characteristics, and what the future holds for this vibrant Indonesian coffee bean variety.
In this article, we will take a deep dive into Gayo coffee, exploring how it’s made and its unique characteristics. These beans have captured the coffee industry’s heart because of their distinct flavor and uniqueness. Their taste delights coffee lovers everywhere. Curious about this type of coffee bean? Let’s discover more in the following article!
What is gayo coffee?
Gayo coffee is a type of Arabica coffee that comes from the Highlands in Aceh, Sumatra, Indonesia. It is well-known for its smooth taste, strong aroma, and low acidity. Grown at high altitudes in rich volcanic soil, this coffee develops a clean flavor with hints of earth, chocolate, and spice. These natural conditions make this coffee one of the most loved varieties among coffee drinkers worldwide.
Aside from its taste, Gayo coffee is also important for the people who grow it. Many farmers in Aceh use organic and sustainable farming methods, often working together in cooperatives that support fair trade. A special local process called “Giling Basah” or wet-hulling gives the coffee a bold body and rich aftertaste. Because of its quality and cultural value, this coffee has gained worldwide recognition and official Geographical Indication (GI) status. If you are interested in this type of coffee bean, you can check our catalog for the best Gayo coffee beans directly from Indonesia.
Gayo coffee characteristics
Appreciating the characteristics and flavor profile of Gayo coffee starts with its unique, strong flavor and character. This coffee holds a flavor profile that is not bitter, with a low acidity and a hint of sweetness that cuts through the slight bitterness. That is why these coffee beans are often used as a mixture in house blends in the best cafes around the world.
Gayo coffee is usually planted at an altitude of 1000 meters above sea level. This contributes to its flavor profile and uniqueness. However, this coffee also has its own uniqueness; the altitude of the plantations determines its flavor. It turns out that differences in the altitude of the plantations can also affect the flavor of Gayo Coffee. This causes the flavor to be inconsistent, but, at the same time, this also makes these coffee beans so unique.
The best way to prepare gayo coffee
The best way to enjoy Gayo coffee is by choosing a brewing method that highlights its natural flavors. Many coffee lovers prefer the V60 or the French press technique because it produces a clean and smooth cup that brings out the earthy, chocolaty, and slightly spicy notes. This method allows you to fully experience its distinct aroma.
Another popular choice is the French press, which emphasizes the coffee’s bold body and rich aftertaste. By steeping the grounds in hot water, this method extracts deeper flavors, making it perfect for those who enjoy a strong and full-bodied cup. The Vietnam drip and Aeropress are also great alternatives for varied taste experiences.
Gayo coffee is versatile and can be enjoyed in many forms. It works beautifully as a single-origin coffee to appreciate its unique qualities, but it also blends well with other beans for creative drinks. Whether enjoyed black or with milk, its smooth flavor ensures an enjoyable and memorable coffee experience every time.
Variants of Gayo Coffee
Gayo coffee is not only famous for its smooth taste and rich aroma but also for its diverse variants, each offering unique characteristics. These varieties grow in the fertile highlands of Aceh, benefiting from the cool climate and volcanic soil. From fruity and herbal notes to bold and strong flavors, each variant showcases the distinct identity of Gayo coffee.
Bergendal
Bergendal is a type of Gayo Arabica coffee. The name Bergendal came from Dutch words “Berg” (mountain) and “Dal” (valley). Farmers grow this low-acidity coffee on the Bener Meriah plantation in Aceh, at 1,200 to 1,500 meters above sea level, and it delivers a slightly fruity taste with hints of herbs and spices.
Gayo Longberry
Gayo Longberry coffee, grown in Aceh’s Highlands, is celebrated for its rich flavor, smooth body, and unique aroma. Cultivated organically at high altitudes, it delivers floral, fruity, and chocolaty notes. Handpicked and carefully processed, it has gained global recognition as a premium specialty coffee, reflecting Indonesia’s cultural heritage and sustainable farming traditions.
Rambung
Another of its coffee variants, Rambung, has the largest beans among other Arabica coffee grown in the region. Rambung coffee has fast growth and requires more land to plant.
Sidikalang
Next, we have Sidikalang Coffee. It grows at an altitude of 1,500 meters above sea level, having a long plant life span with proper care and processing.
Lini Ethiopia
As part of Gayo Coffee, farmers cultivate Lini Ethiopia coffee to produce different flavors, depending on where they grow it. However, farmers first introduced Lini Ethiopia, an Arabica coffee variety, to Indonesia in 1928, and it has continued to thrive in the region’s fertile highlands ever since.
Timtim (East Timor) Arabusta
Finally, this type of coffee comes from crossing Arabica and Robusta, which farmers originally grew in East Timor. After the 1980s, farmers brought East Timor Arabusta to the highlands of Aceh. They then developed it further into one of the well-known Gayo coffee variants that people cultivate in the region today.
Conclusion
Gayo coffee stands as one of Indonesia’s most treasured coffee varieties, celebrated for its rich flavors, unique variants, and cultural importance. From its highland origins to its sustainable farming practices, this coffee continues to captivate coffee lovers worldwide. Whether enjoyed through a simple pour-over or blended in creative drinks, its smooth taste ensures an unforgettable experience.
Every great cup begins with high-quality beans, and the finest often come from Indonesia, the world’s leading producer of Arabica and Robusta. Specialtycoffee.id connects you directly with farmers, ensuring freshness, sustainability, and exceptional taste. From green to roasted and specialty beans, our carefully curated selection empowers cafés, roasters, and coffee for every coffee lover.