The highly popular micro-batch from Colombia, "El Diamante," recently ran out. As usual, we requested samples from our importer a month in advance to purchase a new batch of this highly sought-after origin. (We try to maintain this level, but it's not always an easy task.)
Shortly after, we received five samples of green coffee, each with a reference number. I set up the sample roaster, roasted for the Brazilian cupping, and, as always, following the SCA protocol, María prepared the blind cupping, which we conducted with Katarzyna. It is always a pleasure to see the level of selection that our importer "Xorxios" makes with this origin.Sometimes it's difficult to select which one to choose given the level of all the samples, but lately we seem to be well-synced and usually agree.
"Honeyed cocoa, ripe stone fruit, lots of flowers, sweet and savory on the palate, with well-integrated acidity and good body, resulting in a creamy and complex coffee.", that was the sample that we loved. With the reference in the bag I get ready to call Xorxios to request information, and if everything fits, buy this lot.
The surprise came when he told me that the reference belongs to the new harvest batch of "Netfali Castro" and his farm, El Diamante. This is the second time this has happened to us this year; the other time was with—The Flowers– Honduras, by Gerardo Manuel Peñalva Urquía.
We only buy the best lots we can find, and we always do so in blind tastings. We don't care about any information or marketing that a coffee may have. The most important thing is the flavor and the ability to continue discovering interesting coffees. But one thing has become clear to us this year with these two purchases: We have good selection and tasting criteria. Which we hope you like too.
