Are you looking to explore unique and exotic brews? If so, then you must delve into the world of civet coffee. Civet coffee, also known as Kopi Luwak, is a rare and luxurious coffee variety that captivates the taste buds of coffee lovers worldwide. It is widely regarded as one of the most expensive and sought-after coffees.
The coffee cherries are partially digested by a small, cat-like mammal called the Asian palm civet. The farmers will then collect the beans. It will be thoroughly washed and processed before it goes into the market.
You may have many questions in your mind, such as why people are drinking this coffee. Well, we are here to solve some of those questions. In this article, we will uncover the fascinating facts about civet coffee. So grab your favorite cup of joe and join us on this aromatic journey.
Facts Of Civet Coffee #1 -The Process Of Production
The Asian palm civet will eat the ripe coffee cherries. It takes up to around 24 hours to digest. The cherries’ outer fruit pulp is digested by enzymes. The coffee beans pass through the civet’s digestive system and undergo fermentation. The seeds inside the cherries are not fully digested and are excreted in the civet’s poop.
Local farmers or collectors carefully search for the civet’s excrement in the wild or designated areas where civets roam freely. They collect the beans from the poops and wash them. Any remnants from the beans will be removed. After washing, the beans will be taken to dry, roasted, ground, and brewed.
Video Credit: Noal Farm
Facts Of Civet Coffee #2 -It Tastes Smooth
Those who have drank civet coffee before will agree that civet coffee is one of the smoothest coffees in the world. This is the thing that people will comment on when they first drink this coffee. Like others, coffee certainly has its critics, but it is backed up by science.
It has been shown that civet coffee beans contain less protein compared to regular arabica beans. When you can drink bitterness in coffee, protein is mainly responsible for the bitterness. Since civet coffee beans have lesser protein, they will be much smoother than regular coffee. Many coffee lovers who have drank civet coffee love it.
Another benefit is that you won’t need to add too many other condiments to sweeten the bitterness of the coffee. You will get to enjoy the taste of the coffee in its purest form. It also benefits those who want to cut down on calories, as condiments such as cream or milk contain a lot of calories.
Facts Of Civet Coffee #3 -Higher Price Tag Than Other Coffee
Civet Coffee is renowned not only for its unique production process but also for its hefty price tag. It is widely recognized as one of the most expensive coffees in the world. The cost of this coffee depends on a few things, such as buying it in pounds or by cups, the Asian palm civet wild or caged, and the supply and demand in the place you live.
The cost of 1 cup of civet coffee in Malaysia can be ranged from RM70 – RM300, which is easily 10 times more expensive than the usual coffee you buy. A 100g of civet coffee bean can cost from RM450 onwards.
Civet coffee can be expensive due to the production process, as it is labor-intensive and meticulous. After the civets consume the ripe coffee cherries, the beans are carefully collected from their poops. It requires significant time and effort. Besides, the beans will need to be cleaned after collection to ensure their safety and hygiene.
Facts Of Civet Coffee #4 - The Taste Of Civet Coffee
Civet coffee is often described as exceptionally smooth and full-bodied. The production process contributes to the coffee’s smoothness, creating a velvety texture that glides across the palate. Not everyone loves the taste of civet coffee. Taste can be subjective. Those who love it will love it; those who don’t like the take will say it is not worth the premium price.
If you are trying this coffee for the first time, the taste has a very earthy quality with a nutty nose. Most of the time, it comes with a caramel finish. It contrasts arabica coffee as they are often described as fruity.
Similar to wine tasting. The taste of coffee depends on the varietal, region, processing, and brewing. All these will affect the tastes. It’s worth mentioning that taste preferences can vary among individuals, and some may have different opinions on civet coffee’s specific flavors and characteristics. However, the consensus is that civet coffee offers a unique and captivating taste experience that differentiates it from other coffees.
Facts Of Civet Coffee #5 - Lesser Caffeine Than Regular Coffee
Civet coffee will be an alternative option for those who are sensitive to caffeine but still want to have a taste of coffee. It contains almost 25% less caffeine compared to regular arabica beans. You can try out the coffee, but it may tend to lack flavor.
This option can be great for coffee lovers who don’t drink coffee simply for a daily caffeine fix. The FDA recommends not drinking more than 400mg of caffeine daily. With lesser caffeine than others, it offers coffee lovers about one extra standard cup a day without exceeding the limit.
Facts Of Civet Coffee #6 - It Is Exclusive
Civet coffee’s exclusivity adds to its allure and mystique, making it a coffee that captures the attention of coffee lovers worldwide. The rarity and unique qualities of the coffee make it an extraordinary indulgence for those seeking an exclusive and remarkable coffee experience.
It is almost impossible to make large-scale production due to the labor-intensive and difficult process. It is difficult to say exactly how much civet coffee is produced yearly, but it still has a small percentage in the total coffee production.
Civet coffee continues to enthrall coffee lovers seeking a luxurious and memorable experience. You do want to try out the coffee if you haven’t. Why not embark on a journey to savor the exquisite flavors of the coffee and elevate your coffee experience to new heights?
