September Coffee of the Month: Sulawesi
This month, we’re heading to Sulawesi, Indonesia, for a coffee that is smooth, full-bodied, and a little different from some of the coffees we’ve featured before.
Our Sulawesi coffee comes from producers who are part of the Cooperative of Toraja Coffee Growers, located in the mountainous region of South Sulawesi. Coffee here is grown at some pretty incredible elevations, ranging from 1,400 to 2,000 meters, surrounded by steep mountains, lush greenery, and plenty of mist.
The coffee is made up of Catimor, S-795, and Typica varieties and is roasted to a medium-dark roast. In your cup, you'll get a full-bodied and smooth coffee with low acidity and notes of vanilla, dark chocolate, and citrus.
One of the things that makes Sulawesi coffee unique is the way it's processed. Producers use a traditional Indonesian method called Giling Basah, or wet-hulling. The coffee is pulped, fermented, and washed before the parchment is removed while the beans still have a higher moisture content. The beans are then dried in the sun. This process is a big part of what gives Indonesian coffees their unique character and the slightly bluish color you’ll see in the green beans.
The coffee is grown on small farms, many of which are only a few acres. In recent years, producers have been working together through community mills to improve processing and quality while also making it easier to get their coffee to the market.
And, of course, we love that this coffee comes from a place with such a rich culture and history. The Torajan people have maintained many of their traditional ways of life, including their unique homes that are designed to resemble boats.
We hope you enjoy exploring Sulawesi with us this month. Pour yourself a cup, slow down for a few minutes, and enjoy something a little different.
And remember, every bag of Stray Beans helps us give back to dogs in need.
Sip Coffee. Save Paws. 🐾
