Thailand (Washed / Honey Process)

Description

Profile Data

• Origin: Uganda

• Region: Mt. Elgon Highlands (Eastern Uganda, near Kenyan border)

• Altitude: 1,600 – 2,200 masl

• Variety: SL14, SL28, Bugisu Arabica

• Process: Washed (Fully Washed)

• Farmers: Smallholder farmers organized in cooperatives

• Harvest: October – February

Cupping Score

• SCAA Score: 84 – 86 (Specialty Coffee grade)

• Fragrance/Aroma: Floral, fruity, tea-like

• Flavor: Red berries, citrus, stone fruits, chocolate

• Acidity: Bright, juicy, winey

• Body: Medium, silky

• Aftertaste: Clean, sweet, lingering with a hint of spice

Region – Mt. Elgon, Uganda

The Mt. Elgon Highlands lie along Uganda’s eastern border with Kenya. This volcanic mountain region, with fertile soils and high altitudes, provides ideal conditions for cultivating high-quality Arabica. Farmers in this area—often organized in cooperatives—apply traditional washed processing methods, resulting in a coffee that is clean, vibrant, and complex.

Flavor Characteristics

Uganda (Washed Mt. Elgon) offers a cup profile that is both bright and balanced, with flavor notes that reflect the unique terroir of Mt. Elgon:

• Fruity: red berries, citrus (orange, lemon), stone fruits (peach, plum)

• Sweet: cane sugar, honey, chocolate

• Floral: jasmine, tea-like notes

• Mouthfeel: medium body, silky smooth texture

Its combination of juicy acidity and natural sweetness makes it comparable to some of the best East African coffees.

Significance

• East African Heritage – Uganda is often overshadowed by Kenya and Ethiopia, yet Mt. Elgon coffees consistently deliver top-quality specialty cups.

• Economic Importance – Coffee is Uganda’s largest agricultural export, supporting millions of smallholder farmers.

• Global Recognition – Increasingly acknowledged by specialty roasters for its complexity and cup clarity.

• Unique Identity – Offers a distinct balance of fruitiness and body, bridging the profiles of Kenyan brightness and Ethiopian floral sweetness.