Where were these beans grown?

Named Lala Salama, which translates to ‘Sleep well’ in Swahili (very fitting for a decaf), this coffee was grown in the Gitega Hills in Rwanda. With a high altitude of 1600-1800 metres above sea level, numerous coffee gardens benefit from slowed growth rates and an ideal climate which produces incredible Arabica coffee.

These beans were grown with the guidance of the RTC’s Agribusiness Training Programme, which helps to train and equip farming communities in sustainable farming practices. Alongside harvesting techniques, they also train them to use the discarded cherry pulp as an organic fertiliser.

How are they processed?

Once carefully hand-picked, the ripe fruit is transported to a small washing station just 5km from Karambi Mountains. The Mutovu River flows through the base of the site, which is used to wash the beans as well as to decaffeinate.

This washing station has five full-time employees; however, during the busy harvesting season, the number increases to 70. Out of this, 90% are women, which is helping to narrow the gender gap in this region.

This small station produces a whooping 300 tonnes of coffee beans annually (approx.), steadily increasing since 2018.

What is the sparkling water decaf method?

Once the beans have been processed using the washed method, they are ready to be decaffeinated. It begins by steaming the green beans, which draws out the caffeine molecules. They are then submerged and washed in sparkling water, which attracts and draws out these caffeine molecules.

This caffeine-filled water is discarded, and the beans are given a final rinse and steam to remove any residue before sun-drying. Once they have reached the optimum moisture level, they are packaged and ready to be shipped!

What flavours will you get in this brew?

This is a super-rich and creamy decaf full of incredible flavours. This is because the beans are speciality graded and the entirely chemically free decaffeination method. Typically, harsh chemicals remove the caffeine, but they strip the beans of all their flavour, and no one wants naff coffee!

Starting with a rich cocoa base, it is topped by juicy red berries and raspberry jam. To finish, a sweet and smooth praline tang. Pure yumminess without the caffeine!