Country: Burundi
Region: Buhinyuza, Muyinga
Producer: Matraco, Various Producers
Flavor Profile: Acai Berry, Black Grape, Passionfruit
Roast Level: Light
Process: Natural
Varietal: Bourbon

When Burundi was colonized by the Belgians, the farmers were forced to produce coffee to pay the high taxes. Because of this, farmers focused on quantity over quality and were payed historic lows for their work. However, the countries surrounding Burundi (Rwanda and Tanzania) were payed significantly higher for their crops- so Burundi farmers began to smuggle coffee over the border to sell as a different country’s coffee to receive adequate pay. After the global coffee prices began to rise, investments were made by the Burundi farmers to increase the quality of their crops. They did this by increasing washing stations near the farms and forming cooperatives.

Nyagishiru Station is owned by producer Matraco, who’s plot coincides with the washing station that allows for close monitoring, controlled climate, and overall better quality. Matraco pays farmers who deliver to his washing stations from other farms 20 percent more than the local rate, and his staff 60 percent more. He also gives back to the communities by delivering fertilizer and seedlings.

This natural Burundi is juicy, smooth, and full of stone fruit notes. As it cools, deep grape juice and wine flavors surface.