LAST SPLASH

WASHED LOTS:
Last Splash always features washed processed coffees. These are lots in which the fruit and sticky mucilage layers of the coffee cherry are removed after being picked fresh. It is a multi-stage process involving floating cherries in water and then using a de-pulper, which might happen directly at the farm or at larger washing stations. Following a final washing stage, the cherry seeds will be dried on patios or raised beds.

While experimental processes are increasingly ubiquitous in specialty coffee circles, I want to always have a washed process on our menu. It is partially because on most mornings, I crave their brilliant clarity and vibrancy.  But also because they can offer a level of complexity and delicate body that will always having you reaching for the cup's last splash. 

You might wonder, why do I love washed lots? Well to draw upon The Breeder’s lyrics, it is pretty simple: “we have come for light, wholly, we have come for light, it's true”.

ORIGIN:
 From Peru's harvest this year, we brought in three different lots from the beautiful Sandia Valley. It is home to not simply the best coffee in Puno, or even all of Peru, but rather, its crops are among the best in the world! The perfect growing conditions are fostered by the  altitude influenced temperatures, the multi-generational knowledge of the producers in the region, as well as the natural impact of the Andes, which offer a unique diversity of fertile and mineral rich soil. 

Primitiva Apaza Quea has been growing bourbon on her Paltaypampa farm for nearly a decade. The name translates to ‘mountain where the avocados grows’ and reflects her farm’s lush and fruitful growing conditions. Before she started working with Red Fox five years ago, the rugged geography provided a major obstacle to export but she now has full access to the specality market and we are lucky enough to roast her coffee! 

FLAVOUR:
Primitiva's coffee is such a perfect example of how Sandia Valley coffees balance big and bright fruit flavours against much deeper cooked sugar flavours. It opens with a very satisfying black berry note that balances out against some red vibrant and bright red plum flavours. The brown sugar backing reminds me of a sticky butter tart or the delightful crunch of praline. The finish lands on red berry and more sweetness, think swedish berries or twizzlers.