Rwanda – Mwito. Red Bourbon – Washed

This year we’ve picked both a Washed and Natural processed lot from the Mwito farm of Rwanda. Taking this considered approach to roasting side by side, we get to see how the inherent flavours that come from processing play in a coffees evolution. Both stand out examples of Rwandan coffee. We’re thrilled to have these coffees in our current menu.

Sourced from the Mwito Central Washing Station in West Nyamasheke, a remote and breathtaking region influenced by the Nyungwe Forest and the shores of Lake Kivu, these Red Bourbon cherries are produced by various smallholder farmers in the area and processed by Rwanda Trading Company (RTC).  Established in 2009 with the goal of fostering positive social change, RTC focuses on creating economic freedom and security for farmers by building resilient and transparent supply chains. Today, impressively they process and export near to 25% of Rwanda’s annual coffee production, with more than 80% fully traceable to the farmer.

Mwito is the most remote of all RTC washing stations, with the journey there considered the most time-consuming. Since taking over the mill in 2017, RTC has worked to address the logistical challenges faced by farmers in this isolated region. Despite the remoteness, the combination of high altitude (1,350 MASL), fertile soils and a temperate climate provides ideal conditions for cultivating exceptional Red Bourbon.

Cherries are carefully selected and processed through washed and natural methods at the Mwito station, highlighting clarity, structure and fruit expression. The resulting cup is bright and layered.

We hope you enjoy.