Micro-lot coffees

 

We’re coffee adventurers; micro-lots represent the some of the most characterful and exceptional coffees on sale anywhere.  We’ve worked to hard to source these, they come in small quantities, and there is strong competition to secure them.

And the work doesn’t stop once the greens have been secured.  Micro-lots often demand specific care during roasting to bring out everything they’re renowned for; we develop a unique roasting profile for each one based on the characteristics of its origin, then roast them on a small batch roaster with special attention.  Because of all these factors, these coffees do fetch a premium.  But when you taste that first cup, you know that it’s all been worth it.

What is a Micro-lot coffee?

Within a coffee farm, micro-climates create a unique character and higher quality than the rest of the crop.  This could be due to soil, shade, selective picking or varietal.  These lots can be separated out, and an extra degree of processing, fermentation, drying and sorting can take place.  Being able to cherry pick individuals lots is a collaborative effort, and costly, for the producer and roaster.  The production is very small and adds to their unique quality which fetches higher prices.

Often you hear of coffee and tea buyers speak of the ‘quality pryamid’, as the quality goes up into the top tier, production volume becomes smaller.

Being able to select and feature mico-lots recognizes coffee quality because of the producer’s skill, and roasters relationship with smaller scale growers and co-ops.  These lots could make up several bags, too small for a larger roaster and really small roasting companies can not afford or have the relationships built to purchase them.

Several companies are now printing on their coffee bags information for customers on the coffee varietal, grower, certification, elevation, size of farm and roast date.  Very much like a wine’s vintage on a bottle.