Indonesia Flores Island Coffee

Why This Coffee Matters

Indonesia’s Flores Island Grade 1 (GR.1) represents one of the most distinctive cup profiles from the Indonesian archipelago. Grown on smallholder farms in the Bajawa Highlands of East Nusa Tenggara, these coffees thrive in fertile volcanic soils enriched by centuries of geothermal activity. While often compared to Sumatran Mandheling, Flores coffee is known for its cleaner sweetness, smoother body, and balanced spice finish—a result of drier island conditions and meticulous post-harvest care. For Canadian coffee drinkers seeking a rich, syrupy origin without the smokiness, Flores GR.1 bridges body and brightness beautifully.

Origin & Processing

• Region: Bajawa Highlands, Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
• Elevation: 1,200 – 1,800 m asl
• Varietal: Catimor, Typica, S795
• Process: Wet-hulled (Giling Basah), followed by controlled patio drying for uniform sweetness
• Recommended Roast: Medium & Signature (Medium roast highlights caramelized sugars and brown-sugar sweetness; Signature roast deepens the body, accentuating molasses, spice, and a syrupy mouthfeel.)

Sustainability & Craft

Flores farmers typically manage small family plots averaging 1 – 2 hectares. Coffee is hand-picked and processed collectively through local cooperatives, emphasizing traceability and shared income. While not always certified, many growers employ natural composting and shade-grown systems that maintain biodiversity. By supporting Flores GR.1, Spectra Coffee contributes to keeping these traditional systems economically viable—sustainability through steady demand rather than label claims.

Cup Experience 

Expect a cup that’s sweet, syrupy, and grounding. The Medium roast reveals soft caramel and brown-sugar undertones; the Signature roast deepens into dark chocolate, molasses, and toasted spice. With low acidity and velvety texture, it’s ideal for those who enjoy comfort and depth in every sip.

Cup Profile

• Aroma: Cocoa & molasses sweetness
• Flavor: Chocolate, brown sugar, molasses, mild spice
• Acidity: Low, gentle sweetness
• Body: Full and smooth
• Finish: Syrupy and clean

Brew Tips

• Pour-Over / Drip: Medium grind; 1:16 ratio; enhances brown-sugar sweetness.
• French Press: Coarse grind; 4 min steep; maximizes molasses depth.
• Espresso: Fine grind; 28 sec extraction; thick crema and rich body.
• Cold Brew: Coarse grind; 18 hrs brew; smooth chocolate sweetness.

FAQ

• Is Flores Island coffee the same as Sumatran Mandheling?
  No. While both use wet-hulling, Flores is grown on a different island with drier conditions, producing a cleaner and sweeter cup.
• What’s special about Grade 1 (GR.1)?
  It refers to hand-sorted beans with the highest density and minimal defects—critical for balanced roasting and clarity in flavour.
• Which roast should I choose?
  Pick Medium for clarity and sweetness, Signature for richness and espresso depth.