Rare Coffees: The Top 5 Rarest (and Most Expensive) Coffees in the World

Ever since the third wave coffee movement, coffee lovers around the world have been on the hunt for the most unique cup of coffee money can buy. And in some cases, they pay hundreds or even thousands of dollars per pound for the bragging rights. In this guide, I’ll dive into five rare coffees that are prized among coffee aficionados and explain what makes them so special and expensive.

1. Wild Kopi Luwak Coffee

Kopi Luwak is undoubtedly the most famous rare coffee in the world. It’s produced from coffee cherries that have been eaten and defecated by the Asian palm civet (a small, cat-like mammal native to Southeast Asia). The unusual processing method gives the coffee a distinct flavor and aroma that can’t be replicated.

Wild Kopi Luwak is harvested by hand in the Indonesian islands of Sumatra, Java, and Sulawesi. The coffee cherries are plucked from the feces of wild civets after they’ve been partially digested and fermented in the animal’s stomach acids and enzymes. This unique process is what gives Kopi Luwak its one-of-a-kind flavor profile.

Due to the labor-intensive harvesting process and the limited supply of wild civets, Kopi Luwak is incredibly rare and expensive. A pound of genuine, wild-sourced Kopi Luwak can cost anywhere from $100 to $600 on average. In 2019, a 2.2-pound batch of Kopi Luwak from the Sumatran island of Gayo sold for a staggering $1,929 per pound, making it one of the most expensive coffees ever sold.

When it comes to health considerations, there’s some debate surrounding Kopi Luwak. While the coffee cherries are fully washed and roasted before consumption, the idea of drinking coffee that has passed through an animal’s digestive system can understandably make some people squeamish. However, many experts argue that the roasting process eliminates any potential health risks, and Kopi Luwak is generally considered safe to drink.

As for the taste, Kopi Luwak is often described as having a rich, full-bodied flavor with hints of caramel, chocolate, and a slightly musty aroma. The mouthfeel is incredibly smooth and velvety, thanks to the fermentation process that occurs in the civet’s stomach.

To brew Kopi Luwak for the best results, I recommend using a pour-over method like a V60 or Chemex to appreciate the coffee’s nuanced flavors and aromas fully.

It’s important to note that the popularity of Kopi Luwak has led to some unethical practices in the coffee industry. Some farmers have resorted to trapping civets and keeping them in terrible conditions, essentially forcing the animals to produce coffee cherries for profit.

I strongly recommend staying away from this kind of coffee unless you can be 100% certain that the source you’re buying from ONLY harvests the coffee from the feces of wild civets. While this will undoubtedly drive up the price, it’s far more ethical and sustainable to pay more for wild Kopi Luwak coffee.

2. Black Ivory Coffee

Black Ivory Coffee is another rare and unique coffee that’s gaining popularity among coffee aficionados. Instead of being processed by civets, this coffee is produced from coffee cherries that have been consumed and partially digested by elephants in the Golden Triangle region of Thailand.

The coffee cherries are hand-picked from elephant dung after passing through the animal’s digestive system, where they undergo a natural fermentation process that enhances the coffee’s flavor and aroma. The cherries are then thoroughly washed, dried, and roasted to produce the final product.

Due to the limited supply of elephants used in the production process and the labor-intensive harvesting method, Black Ivory Coffee is incredibly rare and expensive. A pound of this coffee can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,500 on average, with some premium batches fetching even higher prices.

As with Kopi Luwak, there are some potential health concerns surrounding Black Ivory Coffee due to its unique processing method. However, the coffee cherries are thoroughly washed and roasted, which should eliminate any potential risks. That being said, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

In terms of flavor, Black Ivory Coffee is often described as having a bold, intense flavor with notes of chocolate, nuts, and a hint of grass or hay. The mouthfeel is smooth and velvety, thanks to the natural fermentation process that occurs in the elephant’s digestive system. To brew Black Ivory Coffee for the best results, I recommend using a pour-over method to highlight the acidity and fruitiness, or a French press to pull out the darker flavors.

It’s worth noting that the popularity of Black Ivory Coffee hasn’t yet reached the level of Kopi Luwak coffee, so there haven’t been any widespread reports of unethical practices involving the exploitation of elephants for its production. However, it’s still important to do your research and ensure that you’re purchasing Black Ivory Coffee from a reputable and ethical source.

3. Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee

Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee is one of the most renowned and sought-after coffees in the world. It’s grown exclusively in the Blue Mountains of Jamaica, at elevations between 3,000 and 5,500 feet above sea level. The combination of rich volcanic soil, cool temperatures, and misty conditions in this region creates the perfect environment for cultivating exceptional coffee.

Only coffee grown within a specific geographic area can legally be classified as Jamaica Blue Mountain, and the production process is strictly regulated by the Jamaican government. The coffee is hand-picked, carefully sorted, and processed using traditional methods that have been passed down for generations.

Due to the limited growing area, strict quality controls, and labor-intensive production process, Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee is incredibly rare and expensive. A pound of this coffee can cost anywhere from $50 to $200 on average, with some premium batches costing significantly more.

In terms of flavor, Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee is often described as having a mild, well-balanced flavor with notes of chocolate, nuts, and a slight hint of sweetness. The mouthfeel is smooth, with a clean finish.

To brew Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee for the best results, I recommend using a Chemex or Clever Dripper to get the best of both worlds: bright acidity and some chocolatey flavors pulled out during the immersion process.

4. St. Helena Coffee

St. Helena Coffee is another of the rarest and most sought-after coffees in the world, grown exclusively on the remote island of St. Helena in the South Atlantic Ocean. The island’s unique microclimate, volcanic soil, and traditional production methods contribute to the coffee’s quality and flavor.

St. Helena Coffee is grown on a small number of plantations, with the Green Tipped Bourbon Arabica variety being the most prized. The coffee cherries are hand-picked, sorted, and processed using traditional methods that the farm owners have passed down from generation to generation.

Due to the limited growing area, labor-intensive production process, and strict exporting limitations, St. Helena Coffee is incredibly rare and expensive. A pound of this coffee can cost anywhere from $60 to $100 on average, although it has been known to sell for close to $400 per pound.

St. Helena Coffee has a rich, full-bodied flavor with notes of chocolate, caramel, and a slight nuttiness. The mouthfeel is clean and pleasant, and the flavor lingers for quite some time after the last sip.

I recommend brewing this in a Chemex or a French press to highlight the natural flavors of the beans. It can also hold up really nicely in an espresso maker. Just make sure you have a high-quality espresso machine to produce the sweet crema that will bring out this coffee’s flavor.

5. Kona Coffee

Kona Coffee is grown exclusively on the slopes of the Hualalai and Mauna Loa volcanoes on the Big Island of Hawaii. The combination of rich volcanic soil, cool temperatures, and mild humidity in this region creates the perfect environment for cultivating this Arabica coffee.

Only coffee grown within the Kona Coffee Belt on the Big Island can legally be called Kona Coffee, and the production process is strictly regulated by the State of Hawaii. The coffee is hand-picked and sorted, and it’s usually processed using wet processing or honey processing to preserve the natural bright acidity and fruitiness the terroir produces in the beans.

Kona coffee is not as rare as some of the others on this list, but it can still be tough to source due to the minimal growing area, limited exportation, and labor-intensive production process. A pound of this coffee can cost anywhere from $30 to $60 on average, and you could pay $100 or more per pound, depending on the quality and the particular farm it comes from.

Kona Coffee has a rich, smooth, and beautifully-balanced flavor with notes of chocolate, nuts, and a slight hint of sweetness. The mouthfeel is velvety, and it provides a clean, bright, and refreshing finish.

I recommend brewing Kona coffee using a pour-over method like Chemex or V60 to highlight the fruity, acidic flavors. You can try French press, too, if you prefer more body and darker flavors, although you’ll lose some of the brightness this coffee is prized for with immersion brewing.

Why Are Rare Coffees So Popular?

Rare coffees have become increasingly popular among coffee enthusiasts and connoisseurs for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, the scarcity and exclusivity of these coffees contribute to their allure. When something is hard to obtain and available in limited quantities, it naturally becomes more desirable and coveted, especially among admittedly elitist groups of people like coffee connoisseurs.

Additionally, rare coffees often have unique and complex flavor profiles that set them apart from more widely available commercial coffees. The distinctive tastes and aromas of these coffees are often the result of meticulous growing and harvesting conditions, traditional production methods, and sometimes even unusual processing techniques (like with Kopi Luwak and Black Ivory Coffee).

For many coffee aficionados, rare coffees represent the pinnacle of the coffee experience. They offer an opportunity to savor and appreciate the nuances of flavor and aroma that can only be found in these exceptional and highly sought-after varieties. There’s a sense of prestige and accomplishment that comes with being able to experience and appreciate (and pay for) the rarest coffees in the world.

Furthermore, the stories and traditions behind many rare coffees add to their appeal. From the ancient cultivation methods used on the slopes of the Blue Mountains in Jamaica to the unique processing techniques employed in the production of Kopi Luwak, these coffees are steeped in history and cultural significance, making them even more fascinating and desirable to coffee enthusiasts.

What Makes Rare Coffee Rare?

There are several factors that contribute to the exclusivity and high price tag of rare coffees. Understanding these factors can help provide insight into why some coffees are so coveted.

Growing Limitations

One of the primary reasons why certain coffees are so rare and expensive is due to the growing limitations. Many of the most sought-after coffees, such as Jamaica Blue Mountain and Kona Coffee, can only be grown in very specific geographic regions with ideal climatic conditions and soil compositions that develop unique flavor profiles the coffees are known for.

For example, Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee can only be grown within a designated area of the Blue Mountains in Jamaica, at elevations between 3,000 and 5,500 feet above sea level. Similarly, Kona Coffee is grown exclusively on the slopes of the Hualalai and Mauna Loa volcanoes on the Big Island of Hawaii. Limited growing areas mean less coffee production overall, limiting the supply and driving up the demand and the price.

The limited growing areas also make these coffees more vulnerable to factors like weather patterns, pests, and diseases, further reducing supply and availability and driving up their cost even more.

Plant Varietals

Another factor that contributes to the rarity of certain coffees is the specific plant varietals used in their cultivation. Many rare coffees are grown from heirloom or traditional varietals that are more difficult to cultivate and have lower yields compared to more modern, high-yielding varieties.

For instance, St. Helena Coffee is grown from the Green Tipped Bourbon Arabica variety, which is known for its exceptional flavor but can be challenging to cultivate due to its susceptibility to pests and diseases. Similarly, Kopi Luwak Coffee is typically produced from Arabica coffee varietals that are native to the Indonesian islands where it is grown.

These heirloom and traditional varietals often require more labor-intensive cultivation methods and careful attention, further contributing to the limited supply and high cost.

Harvesting and Processing Methods

The harvesting and processing methods used for certain rare coffees also play a significant role. Many of these coffees are harvested and processed using traditional, labor-intensive methods that have been passed down for generations.

For example, Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee and St. Helena Coffee are both hand-picked and sorted, and then they’re processed using methods that involve minimal mechanization, like naturally drying the cherries in the sunlight. This labor-intensive process not only contributes to the quality of the coffee but also limits the overall production volume.

In the case of Kopi Luwak Coffee and Black Ivory Coffee, the unique processing methods involving the consumption and digestion of coffee cherries by civets and elephants, respectively, are what make these coffees truly one-of-a-kind and highly sought after. The limited availability of these animals and the labor-intensive harvesting process further contribute to those high price tags and the rarity of the beans.

Quality and Exporting Restrictions

Many rare coffees are also subject to strict quality controls and exporting restrictions, which can further limit their availability and drive up their prices. These measures are often put in place to maintain the integrity and reputation of the coffee, as well as to protect the local economy and industry.

For instance, Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee is subject to strict quality controls and regulations set by the Jamaican government. Only coffee grown within a specific geographic area and meeting certain quality standards can be classified and labeled as Jamaica Blue Mountain.

Similarly, Kona Coffee is subject to strict exporting regulations by the State of Hawaii, with only coffee grown within the Kona Coffee Belt on the Big Island being eligible for the Kona Coffee designation.

These quality controls and restrictions help to ensure the authenticity and exclusivity of these coffees, but they also limit the overall supply.

In addition to quality controls, many rare coffees are subject to exporting restrictions or quotas, which can further limit their availability on the global market. For example, St. Helena Coffee is grown and produced on the remote island of St. Helena in the South Atlantic Ocean. The island is only accessible by boat, making it difficult and expensive to export coffee in large quantities.

How and Where to Buy Rare Coffees

If you’re interested in experiencing the unique flavors and aromas of rare coffees, there are a few options for sourcing these exceptional brews. However, it’s important to exercise caution and do your research to ensure you’re purchasing from reputable and ethical sources, especially when it comes to coffees like Kopi Luwak and Black Ivory Coffee.

One option is to purchase directly from specialty coffee roasters or importers that specialize in rare and exotic coffees. Many of these companies have established relationships with ethical and sustainable producers, ensuring that the coffee you’re purchasing is of the highest quality and has been ethically sourced.

Online retailers like Raven’s Brew Coffee and Klatch Coffee also offer a wide selection of rare and specialty coffees, including many of the ones discussed in this guide. These retailers often provide detailed information about the origin, processing methods, and tasting notes for each coffee, helping you make an informed purchasing decision.

If you’re fortunate enough to live near a specialty coffee shop or roastery that offers rare coffees, you may be able to purchase them directly from the shop or even participate in cupping sessions or tasting events. This can be a great way to experience these exceptional coffees while also supporting local businesses.

When it comes to Kopi Luwak Coffee and Black Ivory Coffee, I have to mention again that it’s crucial to exercise caution and ensure that you’re purchasing from ethical sources that only harvest the coffee from the feces of wild civets and elephants, respectively.

Many unscrupulous farmers have resorted to trapping these animals and keeping them in deplorable conditions for profit, which is not only unethical but also unsustainable. Always look for certifications and transparent information about the sourcing and production methods before making a purchase.

Regardless of where you choose to purchase rare coffees, be prepared to pay a premium price. These exceptional beans are highly coveted and in limited supply, which drives up their cost. However, for true coffee enthusiasts and connoisseurs, the opportunity to experience these unique and rare flavors is often worth the investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are rare coffees really worth the high price tag?

For true coffee connoisseurs, the unique flavors and exclusivity of rare coffees can justify the premium prices. However, it’s a personal preference. Rare coffees offer complex flavor profiles, distinct aromas, and smooth mouthfeels that mass-produced coffees cannot match. If you appreciate the nuances of exceptional coffee and are willing to invest in the experience, rare coffees can be worth it.

How can I tell if a rare coffee is ethically sourced?

When purchasing rare animal-processed coffees like Kopi Luwak or Black Ivory, look for certifications and transparent information about the sourcing methods. Reputable sellers should only harvest from the feces of wild animals, not those kept in unethical captive conditions. Research the company’s practices and avoid suppliers with limited details on their ethical standards. For other rare coffees, seek out importers and roasters that have direct relationships with sustainable producers.

What is the best way to brew rare coffees?

To fully appreciate the unique flavors and aromas of rare coffees, it’s recommended to use brewing methods that allow for precise control, such as pour-over or French press. These methods enable you to adjust variables like water temperature, grind size, and brew time to extract the nuanced notes and achieve the desired body and mouthfeel. Avoid automatic drip machines, which can over-extract the coffee and mask the subtle complexities that make rare coffees so special.