9. Kunywa Anaerobic - Rwanda

Kunywa Anaerobic is an exceptional coffee hailing from Rwanda's Nyamasheke District. Bursting with juicy citrus flavours, delicate floral notes, and a sweet caramel finish, this coffee embodies the rich volcanic soil and high-altitude climate of its origins. Produced by Rwamatamu Coffee, a family-owned farm committed to sustainability and community empowerment, this batch showcases over 13 years of expertise.

Thanks to the unique anaerobic fermentation process used in crafting Kunywa Anaerobic Rwandan coffee, the beans achieve a strikingly intense flavour profile. Grown at high altitudes, this coffee boasts dense and complex characteristics. When roasting Kunywa Anaerobic, it was crucial to focus on a controlled and gradual development to emphasise its intricate fruity and floral notes. The anaerobic method enhances the coffee's natural sweetness and gives it a rich, syrupy body.

Rwamatamu Coffee Ltd. is a family-run business led by Mukantwaza Laetitia and Rutaganda Gaston, who bring over 13 years of experience in the coffee industry. Established in 2015, Rwamatamu Coffee Ltd. strives for financial success while addressing poverty in rural areas through sustainable coffee cultivation.

The farm features a 20-hectare coffee plantation, producing its own cherries while also sourcing additional cherries from affiliated cooperatives, local producers, and smallholder farmers. Each batch undergoes meticulous collection, processing, sun-drying, sorting, bagging, and is ultimately exported as a premium product.

Situated amidst the stunning rolling hills of Rwanda's Nyamasheke District, the farm and washing station overlook the beautiful Lake Kivu. This region enjoys a tropical highland climate with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 24°C and consistent rainfall, making it ideal for growing Arabica coffee. The fertile volcanic soil at altitudes of 1600 to 2000 meters yields dense, hard beans with remarkable flavour.

The coffee is fully washed with spring water, sun-dried, and handpicked to uphold the highest standards. They are currently pursuing organic and fair-trade certifications to reinforce their dedication to quality and sustainability.

At Rwamatamu, they prioritise creating a positive social and economic impact within their farming communities, with a particular focus on empowering women. They collaborate closely with local cooperatives, with 80% of the workforce comprising women. Their mission is to cultivate healthy relationships within the community through regular bean purchases, investment in employee development, and maintaining high-quality standards each year.