Burundi
Yagikawa Cooperative
Mantongo
Kayanza
1800masl
Bourbon
Natural
Blueberry, strawberry and gummy bears.
In the cup: This is one super fun in the sun hands down delicious brew from start to fin! With a juicy berry acidity, the brew is clear and clean, with lots of layers of fruit and candy. Intertwined strawberry and blueberry are the preludes to some fun candy notes that we reckon taste just like gummy bears. A brew that takes you back to some warmer days when you were loaded up with a bag of sweets from the local milk bar.
Rwiri washing station: This coffee comes to us from the Rwiri washing station on Burundi's northern border, Matingo. Built in 2006, the Rwiri washing station, as part of the Yagikawa Cooperative, helps process and support the harvest lots of some 2339 smallholder farmers.
Yagikawa Cooperative: The Yagikawa Cooperative is one of Burundi's oldest coops, collecting and processing coffee from its 12 neighbouring hills. The name Yagikawa translates to "Talk about coffee' which draws its name from the sense of community it instils in its members. Yagikawa cultivates a culture of sharing knowledge and inclusivity of process to serve all its members and their families. They also value ongoing education and support to their members, allowing them to grow and progress in their craft. Its members gain access to collective experience and knowledge and increase bargaining, ultimately sending more money to supply chains, producers, and their families.
Process: Coffee from Yagikawa typically undertakes a single fermentation for 12-18 hours. It is hand sorted and placed on raised beds for drying. Drying typically takes 9-12 days until 11.5% moisture is reached. Once dried, coffee is stored in a ventilated warehouse, with coffee pulp distributed to Coop members for organic fertiliser and compost use.
A winning tradition: In 2018, Yagikawa submitted the winning lot to the Burundi Cup of Excellence. Their tradition of award-winning quality hasn't faltered since, and this brew is a fine example of that excellence--in a fun-filled package to brighten these darker days.