Rwanda – Mwito. Red Bourbon – Natural

A natural processed Rwandan is rare, and when the opportunity was presented for us to taste – we jumped at the opportunity to feature this coffee.

Even more so, we wanted to highlight the beautiful nuances of this processing method, so we booked both the washed and natural lots from this one producer. The result? A thoroughly enjoyable coffee making experience, that brings so much flavour into the cup. A favourite origin of our team, Rwandan coffees are always a highlight for us.  We’re excited to share not one, but two coffees.

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.

We hope you enjoy.