Exploring Tambi’s Facilities and Plantations
Nestled in the lush, volcanic highlands of Central Java, PT Perkebunan Tambi is a shining example of how tradition and innovation can blend harmoniously. Operating over three distinct estates—Tambi, Bedakah, and Tanjungsari—the company has carved a legacy of producing high-quality teas while preserving the environment and uplifting local communities. Covering a total of 825 hectares, Tambi’s plantations thrive on fertile volcanic soils and a unique tropical mountain climate, creating an ecosystem that nurtures some of the finest teas in Indonesia. This article delves into the facilities and plantations of Tambi, highlighting their unique characteristics and contributions to the tea industry.
Three Distinct Estates: A Closer Look
PT Perkebunan Tambi manages three main estates, or “afdelings,” each with its distinct identity and purpose. These estates are equipped with their own factories, ensuring that every stage of production—from plucking to processing—is done locally, preserving the freshness and quality of the tea.
1. Tambi Estate
- Location: Tambi Village, Kejajar, Wonosobo
- Area: 256.56 hectares
- Specialty: Orthodox Black Tea
Tambi Estate sits at an altitude of 900–2,400 meters above sea level, making it the highest among the three estates. The cool climate, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 23°C, combined with rainfall of 2,000–3,500 mm per year, creates the perfect conditions for growing premium tea leaves. The estate’s lush greenery and fertile soils contribute to producing black teas with a robust, flowery aroma that has become a hallmark of Tambi’s orthodox black tea.
The factory within the Tambi Estate processes the leaves meticulously using the orthodox method. This traditional processing technique involves carefully rolling the leaves to preserve their delicate flavors and aromas. The result is a tea that embodies both strength and finesse, making it a favorite among connoisseurs.
2. Bedakah Estate
- Location: Tlogomulyo, Kertek, Wonosobo
- Area: 310.87 hectares
- Specialty: Orthodox Black Tea
Located slightly lower in altitude than the Tambi Estate, Bedakah Estate is another cornerstone of Tambi’s operations. Like Tambi, it specializes in orthodox black teas. The estate’s agroclimate, characterized by high humidity and evenly distributed rainfall, ensures that the tea plants flourish year-round.
The Bedakah factory mirrors the commitment to quality seen in Tambi, employing the same orthodox processing techniques to produce teas that are rich in flavor and aroma. These teas are not only popular locally but also sought after by international buyers, cementing Tambi’s reputation as a producer of world-class black teas.
3. Tanjungsari Estate
- Location: Tambi Village, Kejajar, Wonosobo
- Area: 256.56 hectares
- Specialty: Green and Scented Teas
In contrast to the other two estates, Tanjungsari Estate focuses on producing green and scented teas. These teas are crafted using a different set of techniques to preserve the natural antioxidants and delicate flavors of the leaves.
Tanjungsari is also known for its scented teas, which are infused with local flowers such as jasmine. The factory here blends tradition with innovation, producing teas that captivate both the senses and the soul. These teas often feature in Tambi’s premium product lines, such as the Heritage Series, showcasing the estate’s ability to marry local ingredients with traditional tea-making expertise.
Agroclimatic Advantages
One of the key factors behind Tambi’s success is its unique agroclimate. The estates are situated on the slopes of Mount Sumbing and Mount Sindoro, active volcanoes whose fertile soils provide a nutrient-rich foundation for the tea plants.
- Altitude: 900–2,400 meters above sea level
- Rainfall: 2,000–3,500 mm per year, distributed almost evenly
- Temperature: 10–23°C
- Humidity: 70–90%
These conditions create a specific microclimate that is ideal for tea cultivation. The high humidity and cool temperatures allow the tea plants to grow slowly, concentrating their flavors and aromas. The volcanic soil, rich in minerals, further enhances the quality of the tea, giving it a distinct character that reflects the land it comes from.
The Role of Local Varieties and Clones
Tambi’s plantations use a mix of traditional seedlings and modern clones such as the Gambung series. These clones are carefully selected for their adaptability to the local climate and their ability to produce high yields without compromising quality.
By combining traditional knowledge with modern agricultural practices, Tambi ensures that its teas are not only flavorful but also sustainably grown. This approach reflects the company’s commitment to both preserving its heritage and embracing innovation.
From Leaf to Cup: The Processing Journey
Each of Tambi’s estates has its own factory, where freshly plucked leaves are processed into finished teas. The journey from leaf to cup involves several stages, each requiring skill and precision:
- Plucking: Skilled workers hand-pluck only the finest tea leaves and buds, ensuring that each leaf is at its peak of flavor.
- Withering: The leaves are spread out to reduce moisture content, making them pliable for the next stage.
- Rolling: In the orthodox method, the leaves are carefully rolled to break down their cell walls and release essential oils, which contribute to the tea’s flavor and aroma.
- Oxidation: For black teas, the rolled leaves are left to oxidize, turning them a rich, dark color and developing their characteristic flavors.
- Drying: The leaves are dried to lock in their flavors and aromas, creating a stable product that can be stored and transported.
Green and scented teas follow a slightly different process, with steps like steaming or pan-firing to prevent oxidation and preserve the natural color and antioxidants of the leaves.
Sustainability and Community Empowerment
PT Tambi‘s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its tea gardens. The company works closely with local communities, providing employment and supporting initiatives that improve livelihoods. Many of the workers at Tambi’s estates are second- or third-generation employees, reflecting the strong ties between the company and the local population.
Additionally, Tambi is committed to environmentally friendly practices. From maintaining the health of its soil to reducing waste in its factories, the company takes a holistic approach to sustainability, ensuring that its operations have a minimal impact on the environment.
International Recognition
Tambi’s teas are not only popular in Indonesia but have also gained international acclaim. Prominent global companies source teas from Tambi, drawn by the consistent quality and unique flavors that the estates produce. This recognition underscores Tambi’s position as a leader in the tea industry and a proud ambassador of Indonesian tea.
Learn More PT Perkebunan Tambi: About Us
Conclusion
PT Perkebunan Tambi is more than just a tea producer—it is a guardian of tradition, a driver of innovation, and a steward of the environment. Its three estates—Tambi, Bedakah, and Tanjungsari—offer a glimpse into the diverse world of tea, from robust black teas to delicate green and scented varieties.
By combining the richness of Indonesia’s natural resources with the expertise of its people, Tambi has created a legacy that extends far beyond its plantations. Whether you’re a tea enthusiast or someone new to the world of tea, Tambi’s products offer an experience that is as rich and diverse as the land they come from.
