5 of the World's Most Expensive Coffees: Are Any from Indonesia?

Coffee is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world. Global coffee consumption is estimated to have reached 166.03 million 60-kilogram bags in 2020/2021.

With its popularity, the types of coffee have become increasingly diverse, with varying prices. Some types of coffee have incredibly high prices, reaching US$1,000/0.5 kg or approximately Rp 14.2 million/0.5 kg (exchange rate Rp 14,250/US$).

Based on Luxury Columnist, here are five of the world's most expensive coffees in 2021:

1. Black Ivory Coffee

Black Ivory Coffee originates from Thailand and is priced at US$1,000/0.5 kg or approximately Rp 14.2 million/0.5 kg. Black Ivory Coffee utilizes elephants to digest Arabica coffee beans. From 33 kg of coffee beans eaten by an elephant, only about 1 kg of coffee beans can be obtained.

2. Hacienda La Esmeralda

Hacienda La Esmeralda ranks second with a price of US$350/0.5 kg or Rp 4.9 million/0.5 kg. This coffee is very expensive because it can only be obtained from the Geisha variety grown at an altitude of 1,500 meters above sea level. Its beans have a honey and citrus flavor when dry.

3. Kopi Luwak

Indonesian Kopi Luwak occupies third place with a price of US$160/0.5 kg or Rp 2.28 million/0.5 kg. Kopi Luwak is made from coffee beans eaten by civets and then collected from their droppings. These coffee beans are believed to have a distinctive taste and aroma after passing through the civet's digestive system for 24 hours.

4. Ospina Dynasty

In fourth place, Ospina Dynasty is a coffee from Colombia, grown in the volcanic mountains of Antioquia Province. It has a price of US$150/0.5 kg or Rp 2.13 million/0.5 kg. This coffee is one of the most expensive due to its unique flavor profile, including almond chocolate, savory notes, and spicy aromas.

5. El Salvador Santa Ana

Fifth place is occupied by El Salvador Santa Ana coffee, priced at US$135/0.5 kg or Rp 1.9 million/0.5 kg. This coffee uses the honey processing method, resulting in a sweet cherry and chocolate flavor. When shipped, this coffee is carefully packaged to ensure optimal flavor and freshness.