Hey, coffee connoisseurs! Today, I’m thrilled to introduce you to one of our hidden gems: Bali Kintamani coffee. This unique single-origin coffee is like a taste tour of Bali’s volcanic highlands, with rich, earthy flavors, smooth body, and a fruity sweetness that’ll make you want to savor every sip. But let’s get into what makes it so special and why it’s found a home here at Java John’s Roasting.
Bali’s Coffee Culture and the Kintamani Region
The magic of Bali Kintamani coffee starts in the rich volcanic soil of the Kintamani region, where coffee plants benefit from the unique subak farming system. In this centuries-old tradition, farmers channel fresh spring water to their coffee plants and other crops like oranges and tropical fruits. Grown at high altitudes and in mineral-rich soil, Kintamani coffee beans develop a flavor profile that’s earthy, exotic, and smooth, with low acidity—a real standout among specialty coffees.
What Makes Bali Kintamani’s Flavor So Unique?
If you’ve ever tried a cup of Bali Kintamani, you’ll know it’s not your average coffee. The farmers here use the “natural” or “dry” process, drying the coffee cherries in the sun with the beans still inside the fruit. This method allows the fruity sugars to infuse into the bean itself, giving it those juicy notes of blueberry and dark cherry with just a hint of cocoa. The low acidity and creamy body make it an ideal choice for both pour-over and espresso lovers, delivering a bold flavor without bitterness. For me, Bali Kintamani coffee transforms a simple cup into an experience, bringing a touch of Bali’s vibrant culture and history to your morning ritual.
Why Bali Kintamani is Our Hidden Gem
We consider Bali Kintamani coffee to be one of our true hidden gems. And here’s a little backstory: our friends over at Addison Coffee Roasters were the ones who first introduced us to Bali Kintamani. They were so passionate about this unique origin that they offered to let us bring it into the Java John’s lineup. It’s been a special addition for us ever since, and it’s a coffee that our regulars love to discover.
By choosing Bali Kintamani, you’re not only enjoying an incredible cup of coffee but also supporting a community of Balinese farmers who have been cultivating coffee with sustainable practices for generations. The subak system embodies a deep respect for the land and the farming community, making each cup of Bali Kintamani as meaningful as it is delicious.
Brewing Bali Kintamani with a Chemex: A Unique Twist
For those who want to experience Bali Kintamani’s depth and brightness, brewing it with a Chemex is a fantastic way to bring out its fruity and floral notes. Here’s my favorite recipe that adds a twist: try adding a small pinch of pink Himalayan salt to the grounds. This addition brings a subtle balance to the fruitiness, adding complexity to each sip.
Chemex Recipe for Bali Kintamani Coffee
What You’ll Need:
- 30 grams of Bali Kintamani coffee, medium-coarse grind
- 500 grams (ml) of water at around 200°F (93°C)
- Chemex with a paper filter
- A pinch of pink Himalayan salt (optional)
The Brew:
Rinse and Prep
Place a paper filter in your Chemex and rinse it with hot water to warm things up and eliminate any paper taste. Discard the rinse water.Add Grounds and Salt
Add 30 grams of freshly ground Bali Kintamani coffee to the Chemex. If you’re adventurous, add a tiny pinch of pink Himalayan salt directly to the grounds. This touch of salt enhances the natural sweetness and complexity of the coffee.The Bloom
Pour about 60 grams of water over the grounds, just enough to saturate them, and let it sit for 30-45 seconds. This bloom releases trapped CO₂ for a balanced extraction.Slow Pour in Two Steps
Begin your first pour in a circular motion, adding water up to 250 grams. Pause, let it drain a bit, and continue with a second pour to reach 500 grams. Go slow and steady for the best results.Let It Finish
Allow the coffee to drip through completely, which should take around 4-5 minutes. The result? A bright, clean cup that brings out Bali Kintamani’s best qualities.Enjoy!
Pour yourself a cup and savor the rich, fruity flavors. With that little hint of salt, the natural sweetness shines even more, offering a unique twist on an already remarkable coffee.A Taste of Bali in Every Cup
With Bali Kintamani, you’re not just drinking coffee—you’re experiencing the spirit of Bali. This hidden gem is one of our favorites here at Java John’s, a coffee with a rich history, sustainable origins, and a flavor profile that transports you to the tropical highlands with each sip. So if you’re ready to try something truly special, Bali Kintamani coffee is here to take you on an unforgettable journey—one full, flavorful sip at a time.