Limited Edition: Rwanda Gitega Hills

MEDIUM BODY

Nestled in the hills of Southern Rwanda, Gitega Hills washing station enjoys a picturesque setting just a stone's throw away from the Nyungwe Forest, famed as the furthest source of the Nile River. Born and bred in this locale, Bernard Uwitije's journey in coffee took a transformative turn in 2015. Transitioning from trading non-washed "ordinary" beans (or natural coffee) to recognizing the allure of fully washed specialty grade coffee, Bernard embarked on a new chapter. Despite being a novice in the realm of washed coffee, his seasoned experience proved invaluable as he laid the foundations for his inaugural wet mill. Armed with a 1500kg Penagos machine, fermentation tanks, and raised drying beds, Bernard's meticulous investments coupled with astute oversight bore fruit in the form of exceptionally high-quality parchment during the station's nascent years. He expanded operations significantly, necessitating the establishment of two additional wet mills in the community. Though he processes coffee from many in the community, Bernard focuses on buying from and working with women and children, who, without a formal education, have few economic alternatives. Bernard’s investment in the most vulnerable, coupled with his leadership in setting up high quality processing stations have yielded great success for his community at large.

We are blown away by this natural coffee and taste tropic notes of kiwi, strawberry, & honeysuckle.