Why Do They Call Coffee Java?

A 2024 History Recap of Java Beans & Where it Got its Name

Why Do They Call Coffee Java?

If you’re wondering what java coffee is exactly, you’re in the right spot!

Looking to understand how Java became slang and what are java beans? Then continue reading!

How did java become slang for coffee?

You’ve probably heard Java being used as slang for coffee. Java coffee and java beans refer to the topic of coffee.

Java is an island in Indonesia where the specific coffee beans originated from. Because these specific beans came from that region – the island Java.

Java beans were grown on Java island. As slang of that time, people started to refer to the beans because that’s where they came from. Like how champagne got its name from Champagne France.

Java Groove's Quick Answer

Why Do They Call Coffee Java?

Java is an island in Indonesia where the specific coffee beans originated from. Because these specific beans came from that region – the island Java.

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Why is coffee called Java?

The name Java originated from the history of coffee. The Dutch introduced Java coffee in the early 17th century, planting it on a small island called Java, birthing the name Java coffee. 

Java used to refer to coffee from Java Island, but as the coffee trade intensified worldwide, people embraced Java as a substitute for coffee.

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Where Does Java Coffee Come from?

Why Do They Call Coffee Java. map of java island exlanation The Island of Java in Indonesia found between Bali and Sumatra. The Dutch carried coffee seeds from Malabar, India, and planted them on the island of Java.

To help understand where Java island is, Jakarta is the capital of Indonesia and it’s on the west side of Java Island. Bali is the next island over to the east.

Are Java Beans Coffee?

Java is a type of Arabica bean grown on 10,000 acres in regions like Djampit, Pancoer, and Blawan on the island of Java.

Java beans have a distinct flavor that sets them apart from coffee beans grown in Southeast Asia

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What Is Special About Java Coffee?

First, it’s the roasting process that makes the beans come out with little acidity. (Learn more about low-acid coffee here).

wet-processing java beans in indonesia

Java coffee is commonly wet-processed. The beans are soaked in water to eradicate the mucilage layer, resulting in a flavorful bean with less bitterness. Wet-processed beans deliver an earthy flavor and a cleaner cup.

After being harvested, most Java coffee beans are rapidly ground and then wet processed. Before delivering their beans, some growers even let the beans mature for up to 5 years. The green beans turn light brown during the maturing process. This process removes the harshness and helps express the mouthfeel of Java Coffee.

During that time the taste profiles develop while the acidity of the coffee bean decreases. These coffees are frequently referred to as “Old Government” or “Old Java.”

The most popular blend, Java Arabica coffee blend, has mild to moderate acidity, earthy undertones, and malty sweetness. Additionally, it has more subtle flavors than Indonesian coffee like Sumatra and Sulawesi.

Many like the mellow taste of Java coffee. It doesn’t have the complexity of, say, most Ethiopian coffees.

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Is Java Coffee Good?

Java coffee is generally considered a specialty coffee. It is known for its rich, full-bodied flavor and earthy aroma, as well as its smooth, balanced taste with low acidity. It’s roasted longer so it has a bolder flavor.

Whether or not someone will enjoy Java coffee depends on their personal preferences and taste. Some people may prefer the rich, full-bodied flavor and smooth, balanced taste of Java coffee, while others may prefer a more complex flavor profile.

It is worth noting that the flavor of Java coffee can vary depending on factors such as the specific type of coffee plant, the growing conditions, and the processing method. In general, Java coffee is known for its high quality and is often used as a base for specialty coffee blends. 

If you enjoy a smooth, full-bodied coffee with low acidity, you may want to give Java coffee a try.

What’s the Difference Between Java Coffee and Regular Coffee?

Regular coffee has a bold taste, but Java is known for its subtle flavors. By roasting them orange or reddish-brown, roasters add more flavors to Java beans. 

Java coffee is also rare to find in the market, hence pricier than regular coffee.

Final Thoughts About Java Coffee

Now that you know how Java became slang for coffee and what makes Java coffee special you can decide for yourself if it’s the right type of coffee beans for you!

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