July 2010

MERTHI INDIAN ARABICA

Before our intrepid travellers head off into South East Asia on another bike trip, we thought we’d highlight a find that was made on their last one through India. Known more for its tea production, Indian coffee is proving able to hold its own against the more well known origins.

This fine Arabica is grown on the Western Ghats in the Chikkamagalur District at 3500m above sea level. The tall, vigorous trees are capable of producing a yield of up to 800kg/acre of the bold oblong “A” grade bean.

Being handpicked allows for only the ripest fruit to be selected, the trees being visited a number of times during harvest. Following the wet process method for pulping the beans are then air dried to remove surface moisture before being laid in the sun to dry further.

Enough about the bean, how does it taste!? For those fans of our single origin Kahava from further south in India, this coffee adds a little something extra. Being a little lighter in the roast allows the bold full flavours to still come through but the finish shows a true honey flavour!

As an espresso shot it holds a fantastic crema and sweet nose, while a milk based cup will have that hit of flavour that we all enjoy after a late night. This find from India has got us excited for what will come from the next trip, so be sure to follow the travels on the website for what the Analyst and Baron may find for us next!!

Enjoy

The Koffee Purist