History of Vanilla in Indonesia

Vanilla holds a cherished place in Indonesian baking, renowned for its aromatic flavor that’s often the foundation of countless cakes and a popular choice for fillings and toppings. This August, DORÉ by LeTAO has introduced our Vanilla Raspberry roll cake as a homage to our nation and the farmers, coinciding with our Independence Day celebration. In this article, let’s briefly explore the history of vanilla in Indonesia!

Throwing it Back to 1819
Vanilla was first appeared in 1819 by Marchal, a Dutch botanist who planted it in Kebun Raya Bogor. It was after a young slave named Edmond Albius in Réunion Island found a method for hand-pollinating vanilla orchids and started the widespread cultivation.

The Start of Vanilla Cultivation
Vanilla cultivation in Indonesia rapidly expanded, driven by the adaptation of Albius’ method, our farmers, and the country’s rich volcanic soil & favorable climate, making Indonesia an ideal place for producing high-quality vanilla. Notable regions known for vanilla cultivation include West Java, Sulawesi, and Sumatra.

Now, We are Leading!
Today, Indonesia is one of the leading producers of vanilla, alongside Madagascar, with the two countries dominating nearly 90% of the global vanilla market. Indonesian vanilla is famously known for its unique flavor profile and aromatic qualities, primarily featuring Planofolia beans and Tahitensis vanilla.

As proud Indonesians, let’s take our national pride with what our nation has to offer and its quality! Don’t forget to give Vanilla Raspberry a try, made with crystallized vanilla from Southeast Minahasa, a sweet treat to unwind the day!