September Costa Rica Black Forest Whole Bean

7oz / 200g Whole Bean
Notes: Black Cherry, Black Licorice, Cocoa Nibs, Black Forest Cake, Red Fruits
Region: West Valley
Producer: Alejo Castro, Volcan Azul
Varietal: Java
Process: Anaerobic Natural
Elevation: 1550 m
 
From September:
 
"This Java varietal is from our friend and widely respected producer, Alejo Castro. Volcan Azul is a Cup of Excellence winning farm and Alejo produces some of the nicest coffees in Costa Rica.
 
We taste juicy black cherries, black licorice, and cocoa nibs. This coffee reminds us of deeply sweet black forest cake and dark red fruits. This coffee has a round body and a funky, sweet finish.
 
Producer
Alejo Castro is the current owner of the well-known and respected farm, Volcan Azul. Alejo carries on his family’s traditions while dedicating himself to elevating the farm’s quality and environmental care. He is responsible for the farm’s advanced drying methods, advanced processing methods, and meticulous soil management. Alejo assesses new varietals annually and continues to advance his coffee quality through ongoing experimentation and innovation.
 
Processing
The cherries are picked, sorted, and then fermented for approximately seven days in an oxygen-deprived environment. This closed fermentation enhances the natural notes of fruit in the coffee. This lot is then dried using patios and the mechanical dryer for seven more days.
 
Variety
Java coffee, originally from Ethiopia, was developed in Cameroon and later planted across Central America. It is often classified as a Typica coffee but is actually an Ethiopian landrace. Java is known for its upright “Christmas tree” shape, elongated fruits, and bronze-tipped seeds. This varietal has shown resistance to diseases such as Coffee Berry Disease and Coffee Leaf Rust."