Kopi Luwak Coffee

Kopi Luwak coffee originates in the Indonesian island of Sumatra. This area is renown for its superb coffee. The name derives from native animals called “luwaks”, which are small mammals who live in the trees and eat the ripe coffee cherry, bean and all.

The story takes a turn when drinkers find out that while the bean is in the stomach of the luwaks, it goes through chemical treatments and fermentations in the digestive system and then exits. These still-intact beans then fall to the ground and are cleaned, roasted, and ground like every other coffee.

If you have heard enough to make you think this is a coffee you would rather steer clear of, it may surprise you to know that the resulting Kopi Luwak coffee is said to be like no other. The coffee is known for its rich flavor with traces of chocolate or caramel. In addition, it is known for its earthy and exotic taste. The body is very smooth with a syrupy texture.

There is not a lot of Kopi Luwak coffee produced because of the unique collecting method. There are only around 500 pounds of beans produced annually. What may surprise you even more about this coffee is its price. Because the Kopi Luwak beans are so few, the price per pound is around $300 or more. This is not a coffee you will find at your local coffee shop! And one must truly wonder if it is worth the price. One thing is for sure: if you drink a cup of Kopi Luwak, it is an experience you will never forget.