Indonesia has a long coffee producing history across an incredibly diverse and expansive country. Each coffee growing region has their own unique system of production and trade, with local varieties, climate, and environmental factors contributing to their distinct profiles. Many farms on Sumatra are small, with between 0.5 and 2.5 hectares on average. Coffee is usually the primary crop for farmers, but most also intercrop their trees alongside vegetables, maize and fruit. This diverse produce will be a substantial part of the family’s diet for the year.

Aulia cultivates coffee on Rakyat Farm, which he inherited from his family. He has been involved in coffee production since his early teens but has always had a unique interest in specialty coffee. In 2019, Aulia Kahfi placed 9th in the Sumatra Prestige Cup. He selectively handpicks ripe, red cherries, or purchases from neighbouring farmers before soaking the cherries in clean water for 2 days, then laying them on patios to dry and raking them frequently to ensure even drying, which takes 12 to 15 days.

‘Sesongot’ is the name of a caterpillar native to Gayo, commonly found hanging in the coffee trees. Aulia chose to name his experimental and specially processed coffees after the creature due to its unique appearance.