Congo Luki Zamba

This is a Canephora — what most people call robusta — and it is not what you would expect from the species.

The lot comes from Lukula, in the west of the Congo, and the varietal is listed as Petit Kwila. It was taken through both anaerobic fermentation and washing: the cherries ferment sealed and starved of oxygen before the fruit is stripped and the beans washed clean. Processed with this much care, it makes the case that Canephora's reputation has more to do with how it is usually grown and handled than with the plant itself.

The cup runs dark and dried-fruit driven rather than bright — black tea and Aschanti chocolate, almond croissant, raisin and apricot, finishing on baker's chocolate. Low acidity, heavy body. We roast this one for filter.

Tasting notes: Black Tea, Aschanti, Almond Croissant, Dried Raisins & Apricots, Baker's Choc