Most of the coffee grown in Colombia is approved by the Colombian Coffee Growers Federation (FNC). Since 1927 its members have worked together to deliver social and environmental programmes and to ensure Colombian coffees meet a certain quality standard.
The thing is, that standard is good, but not always incredible.
And at Caffenation, we're on the lookout for the spectacular. So we asked ton loads of samples and finally came up with this coffee from the Huila area.
And a FNC coffee, from the Villa Esperanza Association.
Villa Esperanza earned Rainforest Alliance certification in 2005, and in the years since the group has grown to include 22 small holders.
At Villa Esperanza, not only do growers take an active role in environmental matter (for example, the group has spearheaded the construction of water treatment facilities), but they also get involved in how the coffee tastes.
For proof, look no further than the local cupping lab.
This coffee is as sweet as butter scotch and has great velvety mouthfeel. It is comparable with another Virmax (the exporter) coffee we bought last year; El Meridiano, but less spicy and sweeter.
Yes, we are not talking about spices and acidity.
That's why we start blending and did go after a good companion for this jewel.
And concluded this years Grade 2 Sidamo from Bagersh (our steady exporter of Ethiopian coffee) was just what we needed.
This early lot got a nice smoked flavour with a nutty side, nice body and spices like toasted sesame seed.
Very proud about the result.
Mostly it's not the most difficult task to blend a new great seasonal blend. The most difficult part is to have a blend that stays fresh, complex and interesting over a longer period. 3 months should be the goal, but very often we have to change the line up after 2 months already.
Not be afraid though, cause new stuff is arriving fast these days. We're in the middle of a ton load of fresh crops and sublime Kenya Peaberry, Washed Organic Yirgacheffe and bright Guatemala coffees are ready to take over by the end of June, beginning of July.
Cheers,
Rob
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