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| Ciwidey Coffee |
In the enchanting landscapes of Kabupaten Bandung (Bandung District), where the rich aroma of coffee weaves through the air, a hidden gem emerges – Ciwidey coffee, one of the finest treasures in Indonesia. In the heart of this region lies Kampung Batu Lulumpang, Desa Lebak Muncang, Kecamatan Ciwidey, Kabupaten Bandung, where the majority of residents are dedicated coffee farmers.
Asep, a 31-year-old coffee farmer from
Ciwidey, reflects on the days when their beans were shipped to Medan without
any distinct brand. "Back then, not many knew about West Java coffee; it
was all about Medan. Our coffee had no brand, just simple, and then in Medan,
it was branded with various names. That's why our coffee here is not widely
recognized," shares Asep.
In those times, the coffee journeyed to
Medan through PT Idomarco, connecting Ciwidey to various parts of Indonesia,
with Medan being the primary destination. However, a shift has occurred as Asep
mentions, "Now, for the past two years, we've partnered with Sucafina.
There are now several companies that buy directly from Ciwidey, West Java.
Thankfully, sales have seen a slight difference, but it's a slow growth,
selling bit by bit."
Asep proudly reveals that Ciwidey coffee
has reached the shelves of the renowned Starbucks, thanks to Sucafina's
involvement. "Thankfully, our coffee here is being used by one of the
famous brands, Starbucks. So now, we also send to Starbucks through
Sucafina," he expresses.
Acknowledging the uniqueness of Ciwidey
coffee, Asep mentions the fruity undertones that make it stand out. "West
Java is known for its fruity taste. In Ciwidey, it's the strongest fruity
flavor. It's a mix of many fruits; sometimes you can taste banana, orange –
it's because the coffee plantations share space with various fruit varieties
that thrive here."
Ciwidey's coffee is primarily Arabica, and
the majority of the villagers are coffee farmers. Asep dreams of a future where
these farmers can meet their daily needs solely from the proceeds of their
harvest. Currently, they often have to take on additional work after the
harvest season due to the less-than-ideal condition of their plantations.
As Ciwidey coffee finds its way to the
international stage, particularly through collaborations with Nespresso and
KTKBC (Koperasi Tani Kini Barokah Ciwidey), it marks a significant step toward
showcasing Indonesia's authentic products to the world. This collaboration not
only benefits the coffee farmers but also positions Indonesian coffee on the
global map.
In the face of future challenges for coffee
farmers in Indonesia, such collaborations and hyperlocal marketing platforms
open new avenues for recognition and entry into local and international
markets. It's not just about coffee; it's a tale of dreams brewing, success
savored, and a commitment to putting Indonesian coffee on every coffee lover's
map worldwide.
