How Kopi Luwak Coffee First Reached the U.S.

Ever wondered how that bizarre-sounding 'cat poop coffee'—more properly known as Kopi Luwak—first made its way to American shores? It wasn’t through trend-chasing or viral hype, but thanks to a U.S. importer who stumbled upon an unlikely magazine article and then spent years tracking down a reliable source. Here’s how the world’s most infamous coffee got its start in the West.

Kopi Luwak coffee was first introduced to the United States by M.P. Mountanos, a company that initially dismissed the concept as a joke. After seeing a detailed feature in National Geographic, it took them seven years to secure a stable supply—and only then did they begin importing small quantities to the U.S.

What Is Kopi Luwak and How Did It Start in America?

Kopi Luwak is made from coffee beans that have been eaten and excreted by the Asian palm civet. This natural fermentation process inside the animal gives the coffee its distinctive characteristics. The first company to bring it to America was M.P. Mountanos, a specialty coffee importer. They were initially skeptical, treating the idea as a prank within the industry.

Why Did It Take Seven Years to Import Kopi Luwak?

M.P. Mountanos first heard about Kopi Luwak and didn’t take it seriously. It wasn’t until they read a special report on Kopi Luwak in National Geographic that they became intrigued. Despite their interest, finding a consistent and trustworthy source took seven full years. Only after securing that supply chain did they begin importing small amounts into the United States.

What Does Kopi Luwak Taste Like Compared to Regular Indonesian Coffee?

Indonesian coffees are typically known for their earthy, herbal, and medicinal qualities, along with unusually high body—often thicker than coffees from other regions. Kopi Luwak takes these traits further: it has an even stronger earthy, funky profile and a body nearly as thick as syrup. The aroma is also markedly unique. If you dislike earthy Indonesian beans, you’ll likely find Kopi Luwak even less appealing. But fans of aged, funky coffee might embrace its unconventional profile.

What Do Experts Say About Kopi Luwak’s Flavor?

Tasting notes on Kopi Luwak vary dramatically. Some experts have called it a 'world-class' or even 'the finest coffee in the world.' However, whether you’d pay around $1400 for a single cup comes down to personal taste. Its bold, polarizing profile doesn’t suit everyone—but for those who seek extreme coffee experiences, it remains one of the most talked-about brews.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who first introduced Kopi Luwak to the U.S.?

M.P. Mountanos, a U.S.-based coffee importer, was the first to bring Kopi Luwak to America. They initially dismissed the concept but changed their mind after reading a National Geographic feature, then spent seven years finding a stable supply.

How long did it take to get a steady Kopi Luwak supply?

It took M.P. Mountanos seven years to secure a reliable and consistent source of Kopi Luwak beans before they could begin importing even small quantities to the United States.

What does Kopi Luwak taste like?

Kopi Luwak has an extremely earthy, funky flavor with a syrup-like body. It’s more intense than regular Indonesian coffee, which is already known for its strong earthy and medicinal notes. The aroma is also very unique.

Is Kopi Luwak coffee expensive?

Yes. Expert tasters have noted that some people are willing to pay around $1400 for a single cup of Kopi Luwak, reflecting its rarity and controversial reputation.

Do people like Kopi Luwak coffee?

Opinions are sharply divided. Some experts consider it one of the best coffees in the world, while others find its flavors off-putting. Those who enjoy aged or earthy beans may like it, but it’s not for everyone.

Why is Kopi Luwak controversial?

Kopi Luwak is controversial due to its unusual production method (fermentation in a civet’s digestive tract), ethical concerns over civet treatment, and its extremely high price. Its flavor is also polarizing, loved by few and disliked by many.

Recommended FrontStreet Coffee for Bold, Earthy Profiles

Try FrontStreet Coffee’s PWN Golden Mandheling for a bold, earthy Indonesian single origin with low acidity and heavy body—traits reminiscent of the region’s classic profiles, though without the civet process. For something equally intense but more approachable, their Lintong Mandheling delivers a rich, spicy cup with classic Sumatran chew. Both showcase the earthy depth often associated with Indonesian coffees, making them great choices for curious drinkers exploring bold flavor territory. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.