As our wooden canoe gently cuts through the serene waters of Lake Toba, the largest volcanic lake in the world, the smell of coffee wafts through the air. We are in North Sumatra, the home of the Toba Batak people, and the source of the unique Mandheling coffee.

Lake Toba is an immense volcanic lake covering an area of 1,707 km² with an island in the center. Formed by a gigantic volcanic eruption some 70,000 years ago, it is probably the largest resurgent caldera on Earth. The Toba region, named after this magnificent lake, is marked by verdant hills, fertile soil, and a climate perfect for growing coffee. It's here, amidst the beautiful landscapes and ancient volcanic deposits, that the world-renowned Toba Mandheling coffee begins its journey.

In Toba Batak culture, coffee is more than just a morning staple or an afternoon pick-me-up. It's an essential part of daily life and a symbol of hospitality. If you're a guest in a Toba Batak home, it's a common tradition to be offered a cup of freshly brewed Mandheling coffee as a welcome gesture, allowing you to taste the rich, full-bodied flavors that are a hallmark of this region's coffee.

The coffee culture here is steeped in centuries of history. The story of coffee in the Toba region is intertwined with the journey of the Dutch colonists who introduced coffee cultivation in the late 17th century. What began as a forced cash crop soon transformed into a labor of love for the Batak people, and today, Mandheling coffee is recognized as one of the most flavorful and desirable coffees worldwide.

As we walk through the lush coffee plantations, we notice the intense care and traditional methods employed by the local farmers. Coffee cherries are hand-picked, ensuring only the ripest are chosen, then sun-dried, preserving the coffee's natural flavor profile. The result is a coffee marked by its bold body, medium acid, herbal aroma, and sweet chocolate notes. It's the kind of coffee that truly captures the essence of its origin, and tasting it gives you a deep appreciation for the Toba Batak's dedication to coffee cultivation.

As the day comes to a close, we sit at the edge of Lake Toba, sipping our Mandheling coffee and watching the sun dip behind the picturesque mountains, casting a beautiful glow over the tranquil waters. This is the Toba region – a land of breathtaking beauty, rich cultural traditions, and an undeniable passion for coffee.

As you sip your cup of Toba Mandheling, we hope you not only taste the exquisite flavors and aromas but also feel a connection to the Toba Batak people and their cherished coffee culture. We invite you to continue with us on this journey, immersing yourself in the rich history, unique traditions, and the remarkable coffees of the Indonesian archipelago.