Ijen Lestari
Ijen Lestari is no longer a foreign name in Indonesia specialty coffee. Since its victory at the Cup of Excellence in 2023, the name has carried quiet weight, placing East Java firmly on the world stage. We met Dandy at his processing mill in Banyuwangi during a farm visit that became the beginning of a lasting relationship. From that moment we began sourcing their coffee each year with intention and trust.
With a background in agricultural business and research, Dandy Dharmawan reshaped how small producers approach coffee. He built systems that valued structure, transparency and long term growth. One of his deepest motivations was to create opportunity for local youth so coffee could become both livelihood and pride in his hometown. Under his leadership Banyuwangi grew into a place known for careful processing and expressive East Java coffee.
Every harvest at Ijen Lestari is evaluated with patience and clarity. Processing is never chosen for trend but for what the season reveals. Among their proudest methods are Carbonic Maceration and Lactic fermentation. Over the years Dandy observed how these approaches draw out vivid tropical fruits and layered berry complexity, bringing energy and excitement to the cup.
Dandy passed away in 2024 yet his legacy continues through his wife and parents who carry the work forward. For Arkib, sourcing from Ijen Lestari is not only about pursuing quality. It is about honouring a story, preserving a legacy and standing with producers who shape both flavour and future.
