Javanese coffee watercolor painting. by See Coffees

Unraveling the Mystery of Java Coffee Seeds

Have you ever wondered where the seeds of the coffee beans that now thrive in coffee plantations worldwide, including major coffee-producing nations like Central and South America, and the Caribbean Islands, including Mexico, actually originated from? Is it true that these seeds trace their roots back to Java Island? Let's explore some historical facts.

In an interview conducted by Tempo journalist with Prawoto Indarto, the author of "The Road to Java Coffee," at the Jagongan Ngopi Neng Solo event in Pasar Gede, Surakarta City, on September 30, 2016, it was revealed that since 1726, Java coffee had already surpassed the dominance of Mocha coffee in the European market. It's worth noting that in that period, approximately 90 percent of the coffee, equivalent to 2,145 tons, auctioned in Amsterdam originated from Java Island.

The history of Java coffee dates back to as early as 1618. According to data from the Coffee & Cacao Trade Journal (1964:29), cited by Prawoto, in that year, the Dutch East Indies Company obtained permission from the Ottoman Empire in Turkey to establish branches in the cities of Aden and Mocha, a bustling port city in Yemen.

During the mid-15th to 16th centuries, coffee primarily thrived in the Arabian Peninsula. By establishing branches in Mocha, the Netherlands became exporters of coffee to various countries in Asia and Europe.

Trade competition was fierce at the time. To break the monopoly held by Arab traders in the coffee trade, the Dutch began cultivating coffee in regions beyond Mocha.

Mayor of Amsterdam, Nicholas Witsen, played an active role in this endeavor. In 1696, Witsen ordered the VOC forces to acquire Coffea arabica seeds from the Malabar Coast, India, for cultivation in Java. These coffee seeds were reportedly planted in areas like Kampung Melayu, Bifara Cina (Bidaracina), Maester Cornelis (Jatinegara), Palmerah, Sukabumi, and Sudimara.

Botanists from Amsterdam were also brought into the effort. In 1706, these botanists conducted extensive research and analysis, revealing that the coffee cultivated on Java Island possessed top-tier quality.

As a result, it was recommended that the Java coffee seeds be propagated and distributed to botanical gardens across Europe, including being sent to King Louis XIV of France. From then on, Java coffee seeds were officially transported to Martinique, a French colony in the Caribbean Islands, through the Royal Jardine de Plantes Botanical Garden.

It was from Martinique, as stated by Prawoto, that the coffee seeds from Java eventually spread, becoming the initial seeds of Coffea arabica planted in various coffee plantations in coffee-producing nations around the world.

"In 1711, Java coffee broke the highest price at the Amsterdam Auction House," as Parwoto stated, as quoted by Tempo.

The Global Impact of Java Coffee

The introduction of Java coffee to the global market marked a significant turning point in the history of coffee production. Its exceptional quality and unique flavor profile quickly gained favor among coffee connoisseurs worldwide. As a result, Java coffee seeds became the cornerstone of coffee cultivation in various coffee-producing nations, shaping the diverse array of flavors and profiles that coffee enthusiasts cherish today.

Pioneering Techniques in Coffee Cultivation

The cultivation of Java coffee brought forth pioneering techniques and practices that revolutionized the coffee industry. The meticulous care taken in selecting the finest coffee cherries, coupled with the unique fermentation process within the digestive tract of the civet, set a new standard for excellence in coffee production. These practices continue to inspire modern coffee growers to innovate and refine their methods, striving for the perfect cup of coffee.

A Testament to the Interplay of Nature and Human Ingenuity

The story of Java coffee exemplifies the delicate interplay between nature's bounty and human ingenuity. Through strategic initiatives and a deep understanding of botany, the Dutch pioneers were able to harness the potential of Coffea arabica, resulting in a coffee variety that would leave an indelible mark on the global coffee industry.

Resilience and Adaptability

Over the centuries, Java coffee has weathered various challenges, from shifts in market demand to changes in agricultural practices. Yet, its legacy endures as a testament to the resilience of coffee cultivation and the enduring appeal of its unique flavor profile. Today, coffee enthusiasts continue to seek out Java coffee, drawn by its rich history and unparalleled taste.

Preserving a Legacy

As the coffee industry continues to evolve, preserving the legacy of Java coffee becomes paramount. Ethical sourcing and sustainable practices ensure that this extraordinary variety of coffee continues to thrive, while also safeguarding the habitats of the civets that play a vital role in its production. By supporting producers who prioritize these values, coffee lovers contribute to the preservation of a centuries-old tradition.

In conclusion, the journey of Java coffee from the shores of Indonesia to coffee plantations worldwide is a testament to the enduring allure of this exceptional variety. Its rich history, intertwined with the craftsmanship of dedicated coffee growers, has left an indelible mark on the global coffee industry. For those who seek a truly unique and storied coffee experience, Java coffee remains a beacon of quality and tradition, inviting us to savor the remarkable flavors that have captivated coffee lovers for centuries.