Hendra Maulizar has been
changing the coffee game in Indonesia. Up until recently (the past five years or so), virtually all
coffee produced in Indonesia was processed using a method called wet-hulling or Giling Basah. Hendra has
spent the better part of the last 12 years constantly tinkering with improving quality and exploring new
processing techniques to highlight all of the hidden, exciting flavors that Indonesian coffees really
have to offer. We have been fortunate to have had a few of these delicious experiments from Hendra in
previous years: a 100% Java Natural, an Anaerobic Natural, and now, for a second time, a Carbonic
Maceration. In this process, whole, ripe cherries are placed in sealed tanks, which are then pumped full
of CO₂. This CO₂ rich environment helps to break down pectins within the cherry, and
imparts bright,
fruity flavors to the coffee beans. As with any fermentation process, without careful management, there
are myriad opportunities for things to turn sour (pun intended), but Hendra and his team have become
masters at these special processes, earning world-wide recognition and placing 7th in the first
Indonesian Cup of Excellence competition. This lot, from the three farms that he helps to manage in the
highlands of North Sumatra, showcases this expertise beautifully: with an intense grape aroma in the
dried grounds, layers of sweet fruit flavors (black raspberry, strawberry, concord grape), a green apple
acidity, an undercurrent of dark chocolate, and a lasting finish, you’d be forgiven if you thought you
were drinking candied coffee!
How to Brew It:
This coffee is best brewed with filter methods for more clarity, but could be
used with immersion methods for a wilder cup. Use a ratio of 1:15 or 1:16, with a brew temperature of
200–205 degrees.
CountryIndonesia - Sumatra
RegionAceh, Gayo Lues
FarmSeveral Small Farmers
Altitude1500 – 1800 Meters
VarietalsAbyssinia, Ateng, P88, Typica
Production MethodCarbonic Maceration
Roast LevelLight/Medium
Hendra's Carbonic Maceration
Indonesia
Tasting Notes
Grape AromaBlack RaspberryCandy SweetDark
ChocolateGreen Apple AcidityLasting Finish
