We are
delighted to offer this rare speciality coffee (with a SCA score of 84) from
Costa Rica. Christmas Carol is a Don Chico honey processed arabica from the
Palmichal micro-mill. The beans are strictly hard bean (SHB) meaning that they
are grown at an altitude of 1400-1600m. The mill has state-of-the-art patios
for sun-drying and elevated beds for more rigorous drying. For inclement
weather it boasts a green house and specially designed drum driers. Throughout
the whole process they are able to separate every lot of coffee in order to
assure full traceability and a stable cup quality.
Honey processing is somewhere in the middle of the washed process and
the natural process. The cherry peel is removed but some of the fleshy mucilage
remains around the beans while they are dried.
Mucilage is extremely sweet and
sticky, like honey and although the name has nothing to do with the taste, these
coffees are known for their sweet flavours.
We tried a few roast styles when this coffee arrived and it soon became clear that we needed to be super-careful when roasting to get the perfect balance of flavours. We are watching, listening to and timing this particular coffee as it roasts so that it delivers its dark chocolate and caramel qualities
with a fresh clementine fruit finish. The perfect coffee to enjoy at Christmas (especially with a shot of your favourite tipple added) and suitable for your brewing method of choice.