Bali, this slice of Indonesian paradise, isn’t just about jaw-dropping beaches and a buzzing culture scene. It’s also a total magnet for us coffee lovers. So, today, we’re gonna dive headfirst into best coffee in Bali. Ready? Let’s go
1. Kopi Luwak
First off, let’s start with the most famous (and perhaps the most controversial) of them all – Kopi Luwak. Interestingly, a civet, a small mammal native to Bali, eats and excretes the beans used to make this unique coffee. As a result, you get a coffee that’s smooth, rich, and unlike anything you’ve tasted before If you’re curious, you can try Kopi Luwak at various plantations and cafes across Bali. However, remember to choose establishments that source their beans ethically.
2. Kintamani Coffee
One of the main growing regions in Bali, Kintamani, is known for its high-quality Arabica beans. Kintamani coffee is typically organic and has a light to medium body with hints of cherry, citrus, and vanilla. The best place to try Kintamani coffee is, of course, in Kintamani itself, where you can visit local coffee farms and see the coffee-making process firsthand.
3. Bali Coffee (Robusta)
Bali is particularly known for its Robusta coffee, which is stronger and more bitter than Arabica. In fact, Bali Kopi (coffee), as it’s often called, is robust (pun intended!) and full-bodied, making it perfect for those who like their cup of Java strong. So, if you’re looking for a hearty brew, you can find Bali Kopi in local markets and coffee shops across the island.
4. Peaberry Coffee
Peaberry coffee is made from a natural mutation of the coffee bean inside its cherry. Normally, a coffee cherry produces two beans. Occasionally, it will produce just one, resulting in a smaller and rounder bean known as a peaberry. Peaberry coffee from Bali is rare and highly prized for its intense flavour and aroma. Try it at specialty coffee shops in Seminyak or Ubud.
5. Espresso Blends
Bali’s coffee culture isn’t just about traditional brews. On the contrary, the island is also home to a thriving scene of modern coffee shops and cafes that serve up excellent espresso blends. Not only that, but these blends often combine Balinese beans with beans from other parts of Indonesia or around the world, resulting in unique flavours. So, if you’re on the hunt for some of the best espresso blends on the island, make sure to head to Revolver Espresso in Seminyak or Seniman Coffee Studio in Ubud.
6. Munduk Coffee
Munduk, nestled in the highlands of North Bali, earns celebration for its exceptional coffee. Thanks to the cool climate and rich volcanic soil here, it creates perfect conditions for growing Arabica coffee. As a result, people recognise Munduk coffee for its smooth, well-rounded flavour with a hint of sweetness and a delightful aroma. Hence, to really complete your trip to Munduk, you must visit a local coffee plantation. That’s where you can taste this exquisite coffee right from the source.
Exploring Bali’s coffee culture is a journey of flavours, aromas, and experiences. Each region and each variety offers a unique taste of this beautiful island. Whether you’re sipping on a cup of Kopi Luwak amidst lush plantations, tasting the subtle notes of Kintamani coffee, enjoying the robust flavour of Bali Coffee, discovering the rarity of Peaberry, or savouring a carefully crafted espresso blend, you’re in for a treat. Happy sipping!
