Additional lab notes: Strawberry notes stand out in the brewed aroma along with a hint of RC cola. The coffee has a surprising acidity that is nicely balanced with a creaminess. A kaleidoscope of flavors come through in the cup. Red wine, strawberry, raspberry and bubble gum to start, with very light notes of chocolate, cinnamon and rose. As it cools strawberry becomes more prominent, along with cola. After the first roast, we immediately wished we had purchased more of these beans. Get them while you can!

Preferred brew method: pour over, Chemex, Aeropress, French press, drip, cold brew

About the processing method: This anaerobically fermented coffee was inoculated with the yeast Pichia kudriavzeii, which is well known for its ability to add flavor and complexity to coffee. After getting a chance to experience this coffee, we completely agree. The different organisms present during the fermentation process impart different characteristics through byproducts they produce, and P kudiavzeii is really a star. The fermentation batch of beans was inoculated with yeast and underwent a 48 hour anaerobic fermentation, until it reached a target pH of 4.2. It was then followed by drying on a raised patio for 15-20 days, then hulled and rested on parchment for one month.

About the bean variety: Kartika beans are large! The name Kartika is an acronym for Kopi Arabica Typi Katuai (translating to Aribica coffee, Catuai type) and is a type of catuai localized to the area. It was first brought to Indonesia in the 1980s by Portuguese breeders who were also responsible for early trials of Catuai in Brazil. While this bean is prized for its flavor profile, cultivation is more challenging for farmers, due to its susceptibility to leaf rust and higher than average water requirements.

About the source: This coffee is from smallholder farmers in Batukaang, Kintamani, in the northern side of Bali. Karana is the processing group, and they are well known for their variety of fermentation experiments. Historically, it’s been challenging to get these coffees into the US.

Certifications: None

Sourced by: Royal Coffee

Humanitarian efforts: For this coffee, Lab Notes Coffee will donate 2.5% of each purchase to humanitarian efforts. We split the amount, with 1.25% of each purchase to support the humanitarian efforts of World Vision in Bali, and 1.25% locally here in Arizona.