Country: China
Province: Yunnan
County: Menglian Dai, Lahu and Va Autonomous County
Farmer: LiJiangrong
Washing station: Kaku
Elevation: 1600 masl
Variety: Catimor (P3 / P4)
Process: Washed
Screen size G1: 17+
Screen size G2: 14/15
Harvest Period: December – April
Tasting notes: granny smith, butterscotch, citrus
Farm information
Kaku is located in Paliang, the largest coffee producing area in Menglian County, Yunnan. The family run farm and washing station is led by Mr Li, processing coffee grown by surrounding villages of small holders as well as their own land. Alongside coffee, the farm grows a variety of trees such as camphor tree (used as an essential oil), Tianzhugui (used in traditional Chinese medicine), with Huanghuali (a type of rosewood) grown to provide shade.
Mr Li and his family have been growing and processing commercial grade coffee for over 20 years, typically selling to Nestle, Starbucks and Taiwan. The focus on specialty is less than 5 years old, yet the commitment to quality combined with higher than average elevation mean it is producing some excellent washed lots. The family are very well respected in the local community, helping many villagers with education and healthcare, which is hugely valued in this remote area.
Processing information
After pulping, the beans are dry fermented for 12-24 hours, and then washed. Drying takes place on patios for roughly 12-16 days.