Indonesië Sumatra Mandheling

Miss Morrison, a specialty coffee roastery from Delft, offers the Indonesië Sumatra Mandheling, a characterful single-origin coffee. These coffee beans from Sumatra are known for their full flavor and rich aroma. Below are the main characteristics of this special coffee, from origin to packaging.

The Sumatra Mandheling comes from the Padang region in West-Central Sumatra (Indonesia), close to the highlands of Aceh. The coffee grows on volcanic soil at approximately 1,500 meters altitude in a tropical climate. This bean is named after the Mandailing people of North Sumatra. It is not a specific plantation coffee, but comes from small-scale coffee farmers in the mountainous area. The main harvest takes place between June and December, when the coffee cherries are optimally ripe.

Miss Morrison roasts these Mandheling beans medium. This medium roast (moderate roast) provides a nice balance between strength and nuance. The bean thus develops a powerful flavor without becoming bitter, while the characteristic spicy notes are preserved. Sumatra Mandheling lends itself well to a dark roast, but with this medium roast the complex flavors remain more intact. The result is a coffee with a solid intensity (about 4 out of 5 on the scale) and a pleasant rounded finish.

Sumatra Mandheling is known for its full body and low acidity. The aroma is distinctly earthy and spicy. On the palate, notes of dark chocolate and spices are discovered, with background hints of licorice and wood. Each sip reveals a complex, deep flavor that lingers as a spicy, earthy aftertaste. This unique combination of flavors occurs almost exclusively in Indonesian coffee and makes Mandheling beloved by connoisseurs.

The processing method for this coffee is a natural one typical of Sumatra. The local method, known as wet-hulling or Giling Basah, involves partially removing the cherry pulp after drying while the beans are still moist. As a result, the beans retain slightly more moisture (around 12%) during drying than washed coffees. This unique process, finishing drying in the sun after early hulling, gives the green beans a blue-green tint and contributes to the characteristic flavor. The result is a coffee with an extra-heavy body, mild bright acidity and the pronounced earthy flavour for which Mandheling is known.

The Indonesia Sumatra Mandheling from Miss Morrison consists of 100% Arabica beans. In this region mainly Arabica varieties such as Typica and Catimor are grown, both of which can be found in the Mandheling harvest. Typica is a classic variety known for subtle sweet notes, whereas Catimor is a hybrid that is resistant to disease and can give a somewhat spicier character. The combination of these varieties creates the complex flavour of Mandheling coffee. Generally only the best beans (Grade 1 quality) are selected, which guarantees few defects and a high-quality cup of coffee.

Sustainability is a high priority at Miss Morrison. The green coffee beans are carefully, and where possible organically, procured from plantations that provide good working conditions. Attention is paid to fair trade: the coffee farmers receive a fair price for their beans, which contributes to a better standard of living locally. Miss Morrison tries to keep the number of links in the chain as small as possible by purchasing directly or through reliable cooperatives. That means more control over origin and less distance traveled by the beans, which reduces the ecological footprint. The beans are therefore not only called 'green' because of their color before roasting, but also because of responsible and sustainable cultivation and trade.

This Sumatra Mandheling is versatile to prepare and scores highly across all brewing methods. As an espresso it shines: the crema is full and the shot is smooth and powerful thanks to the low acidity. In milk drinks such as cappuccino or latte this coffee holds up well, the robust flavours remain clearly present alongside the milk (a real recommendation for cappuccino lovers). Also as filter coffee or slow coffee the Mandheling offers a special experience; preferably use a French press or a reusable filter to preserve the full oils and body. In a moka pot ('stovetop pot') or a fully automatic machine this bean also yields a rich and aromatic cup. It is even suitable for cold brew: the coffee becomes sweet and mellow, while the earthy core flavours remain intact.

Sumatra Mandheling enjoys international recognition as one of the best Indonesian coffee beans. Coffee connoisseurs praise the full, complex flavour, and the bean consistently receives high ratings. In consumer reviews this coffee scores very well, for example in a large online review round it achieved an average of around 4.8 out of 5 stars, which indicates broad appreciation among drinkers. Also in professional circles the Mandheling is highly regarded, for instance Sumatran coffee was repeatedly included in special blends of well-known coffee chains because of its unique profile. The quality status (Grade 1) underlines that this is premium coffee. Although this specific variant from Miss Morrison has not won a notable competition prize, the consistent quality and taste experience align with award-winning Sumatran coffees worldwide.

Miss Morrison packages the Sumatra Mandheling in sturdy bags of 500 grams or 1 kilogram. The packaging is designed to be functional: a kraft paper exterior with an aluminium inner layer to preserve freshness and aromas. The label clearly lists all relevant details, such as origin, roast and tasting notes. Sustainability also plays a role in the packaging design. Many customers reuse the coffee bag; if the top edge is opened carefully, the same bag can be refilled on the next visit. The roastery even encourages this reuse by giving loyal customers who bring their empty bag for refilling a little extra coffee. In addition Miss Morrison offers optional reusable one-kilo coffee tins, so enthusiasts can store their supply in an attractive tin and refill it each time.

Indonesia Sumatra Mandheling from Miss Morrison is available year-round through the roastery's own channels. This coffee can be ordered online in the Miss Morrison webshop or purchased at the coffee bar in Delft. The beans are available as whole beans or ground to the desired grind. The price is approximately €16.90 for a 500 gram bag and €33.80 for 1 kg (actual prices may vary slightly). Converted this comes to about €33.80 per kilo, which is appropriate for a specialty coffee of this quality. Given the daily fresh roasting at Miss Morrison a fresh product is guaranteed. With the combination of an affordable price per cup and distinctive flavour this Sumatra Mandheling is an attractive choice for both the hospitality sector and home baristas looking for something special.