Ivan Gutierrez CatuaiEducation Lot

After a number of years featuring gesha and SL28 lots from award-winning producer Ivan Gutierrez, we were approached last year by our import partners at Selva regarding some of Ivan’s larger catuai variety lots. We had the opportunity to taste both his washed and honey-processed catuai lots and were impressed not only by the expressiveness of the washed catuai lot, but also by how well the honey processing illustrated its intended effect of bringing additional sweetness and flavor complexity to the cup. Often, we find that the effects of honey processing can seem quite minimal, or even limiting to the character of a coffee, compared to a washed counterpart. These two lots, on the other hand, presented together as part of our February release, are a picture of contrast, with each offering a uniquely enjoyable flavor profile in its own right. In this washed catuai lot, we experience a more reserved but refined and approachable profile compared to the honey process, showcasing hints of candied citrus peel, mild cherry, browning sugars, and milk chocolate.