India Pearl Mountain Estate 93pt

Introducing our first coffee from India, India Pearl Mountain Estate, now honored with 93 Points on Coffee Review! This unique coffee is produced by blending traditional farming practices with innovative, state-of-the-art techniques from around the world. The Hindi word 'Ratnagiri' translates to 'Pearl Mountain,' referring to the dense silver oak canopy that crowns this farm. Established in 1920, Ratnagiri is owned and operated by Ashok Patre, having been passed down from grandfather to father to son. Ashok is a progressive farmer, well-traveled and full of initiative. Drawing inspiration from global practices, he has pushed the boundaries of traditional Indian coffee cultivation and processing. Brix levels are tested before harvesting, and the processing methods include natural, honey, and fermentation experiments alongside the traditional washed process.

Pearl Mountain Estate is essentially an organic/biodynamic farm and holds official Rainforest Alliance Certification. Quarterly soil tests are conducted, and organic soil corrections are applied. To enhance plant immunity and the sugar levels of the fruit, ionic seawater and seaweed extract are used. The estate boasts a lush, three-story shaded environment, home to over 48 recorded bird species, monkeys, leopards, wild boars, tigers, mongoose, and occasionally elephants. The rich biodiversity necessitates that Ashok and his family prioritize ecological harmony in their farming practices.

Lot RN 56 is a Cauvery varietal, harvested at a cherry brix of 25.2. After removing floaters, the cherries underwent a 104-hour extended fermentation with a selected yeast strain in stainless-steel fermenters, within a nitrogen-rich environment. They were then slowly dried on raised beds with constant stirring over the next 30 days.