Q&A
How is elephant-refined coffee made?
We rely on bio-fermentation (courtesy of our majestic elephants) to make Black Ivory Coffee. In addition to their healthy diet of grasses, bananas, and tamarind, our elephants snack on the sweet fruits of the Coffea arabica plants – ‘coffee cherries’.
How does it work? First, each elephant’s digestive enzymes break down some of the protein in the coffee cherries, reducing bitterness . Then the elephant’s digestive system becomes a fermentation vat, refining the flavour profile and lending an earthy fruitiness. Fermentation has long been known to improve the flavour of wine, beer and coffee. Here, the coffee beans marinate alongside the fruit of the coffee cherries, and the grasses, herbs and tamarind the elephant has eaten.
After 12 to 72 hours, the cherries exit the elephant’s digestive tract. The coffee beans are gathered, carefully washed and sun-dried, then selected for quality. Because the elephants eat only a limited number of coffee cherries, we harvest just 500 pounds of coffee beans each year, making Black Ivory Coffee the rarest coffee experience in the world.
Where do you source your coffee beans?
Black Ivory Coffee is created with premium Arabica coffee beans, grown in the northern province of Chiang Rai and hand-selected for quality. Arabica beans are renowned for superb, rounded flavour.
Coffea arabica plants thrive in the high altitudes of Thailand, with its cool climate, consistent rainfall, and well-drained volcanic soil. The geographic conditions and traditional farming practices give our coffee beans a balanced flavour profile, with notes of chocolate and citrus as well as floral undertones.
Arabica coffee was introduced into Thailand in the 1980s, as part of the royal family’s opium eradication project. Thailand has now almost completely eliminated opium production, by replacing opium plants with coffee, which thrives in similar conditions. After bio-fermentation, courtesy of our elephants, the flavour is even more enhanced, with reduced bitterness.
What makes Black Ivory Coffee unique?
This is the only elephant-refined coffee on earth. Black Ivory Coffee is harvested in small batches, just 500 pounds of coffee beans each year, making this the world’s rarest coffee. Twenty kilograms of raw coffee cherries are required to produce just one kilo of Black Ivory Coffee, making this experience distinctly exclusive – and expensive.
Formerly available only at select luxury hotels and restaurants, the coffee is now available to purchase online. Learn more about how elephant-refined coffee is made.
Can I customise my coffee order?
Create an unforgettable gift experience by sending the world’s rarest coffee. You can add a personalised message to your gift recipient and have it included with the package and delivered directly to them.
Is Black Ivory Coffee ethical?
We have the strongest commitment to animal welfare – and social responsibility. Our elephants enjoy a contented life, looked after by mahouts, who care for them, feed them, bathe them, and shower them with love and affection. Elephants eat coffee cherries in the wild, so they are happy that we offer coffee cherries as a snack, along with their healthy diet of grasses, bananas, and tamarind.
We also look after our mahouts and the entire production team, offering a reliable source of income and funds available for healthcare and education, as well as savings for future endeavours, including university fees. Our after-school programme helps students learn about animal care, and provides funds they can apply to their further education. Learn more about our elephants and social programmes.
Do you have a shop in Thailand?
We do not have a public shop in Thailand. Our entire harvest of coffee beans is available to online clients and directly to distinctive restaurants and hotels. Have a look at our coffee collection in the online shop.
What does elephant coffee taste like?
The coffee has been described as ‘earthy’, with flavours of velvety chocolate, ripe red berries, tangy tamarind, and an aroma of rich cacao and spices. The coffee also has a ‘soft’ mouthfeel. Black Ivory Coffee is the most intense elephant coffee experience, while Mahout’s Blend is a smooth and more subtle blend of elephant-refined coffee and high-calibre Arabica coffee not refined by elephants. Explore the collection.
What is the best way to brew the coffee?
To enhance your premium coffee experience, we recommend using the pour-over method or a French Press – or for greater intensity, a Moka Pot. A full brewing guide is included with your purchase, to ensure the optimal grind and maximum enjoyment.
What’s the best way to store Black Ivory Coffee?
Keep your coffee in a cool, dry area, away from sunlight. The aluminium can your coffee comes in is airtight, to protect the flavour. We recommend that you consume the coffee within 3-4 months of purchase. Coffee won't spoil like milk, but the flavour intensity can fade, leaving a ‘woody’ taste.
Do you ship internationally – and what is the lead and delivery time?
Yes, we do ship internationally – and shipping is complimentary. Delivery times are typically 5-7 days, but please allow up to 8 days. The duty is included free of charge.
How do I get in touch with customer service?
For instant feedback or queries, select our chat feature. Or you may contact our customer service department on Concierge@BlackIvoryCoffee.com.