We’re kicking off January with a vibrant microlot from Papua New Guinea’s Western Highlands, where over 1,500 smallholder farmers contribute to the output of the Kindeng Mill. These growers cultivate small, shaded “garden” farms using traditional methods, surrounded by the dramatic landscape of mountains and river valleys. Coffee has long been a part of daily life here - grown alongside food crops for both community use and trade - and it remains one of the region’s most important and culturally significant exports.
What makes this release so special is its natural process, a rarity in PNG where washed coffees are the norm. Only the ripest cherries are selected, hand-sorted, and laid out to dry on raised beds for 3 to 4 weeks. During this time, they are carefully turned multiple times a day to ensure even moisture content. The result is a more expressive, fruit-forward profile that captures the rich biodiversity and traditional farming of the region in every cup.
This lot features a classic combination of Arusha, Bourbon, and Typica varietals, grown between 1520–1770 MASL. In the cup, you'll find notes of stewed mandarin and jammy papaya, grounded by smooth toffee sweetness and a creamy mouthfeel. A winey, fruit-driven acidity brings clarity and energy to the finish. It’s a coffee that feels both familiar and adventurous, ideal for those looking to begin the year with something nuanced, textured, and distinctly tropical.
Whether you’re easing back into your brew routine or trying something new to start the year fresh, this coffee offers a perfect reset. Distinct, balanced, and memorable, this release sets the tone for another exciting year of Specialty Estate discoveries.