Our first natural process from Guatemala, it has lower acidity than the Ethiopian naturals, while still having a fruity profile. Blackberry, mango are the first flavors we picked up, with guava, red currant following and just the most subtlest of chocolate coming through as the cup cooled. It feels like an Ethiopian natural without the acidity or strong citrus profile.
These beans come from the southeastern part of Guatemala, in a very rural, inaccessible, mountainous area above Laguna de Ayarza (locally known as “Blue Lake”), where there are less than 10 homes in total around its perimeter. Cold, deep and pristine, the lake is said to be formed by two massive volcanoes that collapsed into a large crater, parts of the bottom having never been found. The beloved lake is part of legendary folklore for the locals. Because natural process coffee beans have more rigorous requirements, only those grown in the 5,500-6,000 elevation are selected.
Due to the hilly conditions where the beans are grown, the natural process beans are transported to a neighboring region where there is flatter land available for drying them in the sun, with sufficient breezes to blow over them. Laid out in layers of 3-4″ deep, they are dried for 5-6 days while being constantly turned during the day. The cherries go from red or yellow to purple, and then black. They are then finished for a half a day in mechanical dryers, this final process helping to control the acidity and ensure a final dry process without any pesky rain showers that may cause re-absorption of rainwater.
Arpan Bhakta –
Was never a fan of Columbian coffee until I tried this one. Love this coffee, it’s unlike any other Colombian coffee I’ve ever had. I’m not good at describing flavor profiles but the description by the roaster hits it perfectly!!
brent –
Tried about 5 split rail coffee’s so far. I usually go for more “classic” flavor notes in my coffee (chocolate, nuts, caramel, sugar) and this coffee has been my favorite out of the 5. very interesting flavors from start to finish. give this a try!
Kevin –
I’ve never been a fan of Columbian coffee, but this one made me a believer!