Like almost all East African coffee-producing countries, Burundi began cultivating coffee at the behest of European settlers. After independence in 1962, coffee farming remained in private hands for over two decades. The quality and quantity of coffee produced during this period was very low. However, due to subsequent political turmoil and a lack of private sector interest in perpetuating the coffee industry, the coffee sector and its entire infrastructure were eventually taken over by the state, which controlled the coffee trade for more than three decades. The hope was that the government would improve quality, productivity, and profitability, but these results did not materialize as expected.
After several years of strict government control, the state partially relinquished control over the coffee trade, creating public and private coffee companies for processing and exporting coffee. The coffee sector has continued to move toward privatization since then, and the quality and reputation of Burundian coffee have steadily improved since 2009. Today, coffee is the number one export crop of this small nation and has played a significant role in stabilizing the country despite periods of civil unrest. In this respect, investing in Burundian coffee can make a significant difference to the quality of life for producers.
THE CAR WASH STATION
Today we find some washing stations in the province of Rumonge South, such as Nduwayezu , producing some of the best natural coffees in Burundi.
The Nduwayezu cooperative was created in 2013 and obtained organic certification in 2019, currently having 322 members
This station processes cherries from around 18 hills and does so individually to maintain the quality of each batch, preserving the unique flavors associated with the altitude, the soil of the area where they were planted, and the care given by the farmers who grow and harvest those plants.
THE GRAINS
Origin: Burundi, Rumonge South
Roast: Espresso
Washing Station: Nduwayezu
Altitude: 1,630 meters above sea level
Variety: Bourbon
Benefit: Washing
Tasting notes: Coffee with sweet notes reminiscent of honey. On the palate, milk chocolate and red berries. Excellent body and good acidity.
THE IMPORTER
Olam Specialty Coffee is a small company based in England, part of a much larger conglomerate. In Colombia, I met one of their green coffee buyers, and our relationship has been very fruitful ever since. Olam Specialty connects with producers and communities, offering premiums for purchasing quality coffee.
THE RECIPE
We offer these guidelines to help you develop a recipe, but keep in mind that it may vary depending on the machine, mill, and water you use.*
IN 18 grams of coffee
OUT 35 grams per cup
Time of 25 seconds.
Coffee boiler temperature 93ºC,
Water pump pressure 9 bar
*La Marzocco, Linea PB
*Victoria Arduino, Mythos One
*Osmosis water, 110 ppm
