Rwanda Gitwe 275

Nestled high in the mountains of Rwanda's Western Province, at a breathtaking altitude of nearly 2000 meters, lies the Gitwe washing station. Though the smallest of all the stations in the region, covering less than a hectare, Gitwe consistently produces some of the most revered specialty coffees. This year's Gitwe 275 is no exception.

What makes Gitwe's coffee so special? It's a combination of factors, starting with its location. Situated just 3km from Gatare and near the town of Kamina, Gitwe, meaning "the name of the land," benefits from the unique terroir of this mountainous region. Lush coffee trees and tropical fruit line the path leading down to the station, hinting at the vibrant flavours within.

But it's not just the location. Despite its small size, Gitwe receives cherries from 1020 local farmers, each contributing to the annual production of 500 tons of high-scoring specialty coffee, including this delightful coffee that has a SCA cup score of 82.5. These farmers, some with as few as 150 trees and others with up to 6000, have all received training through RTC's (the washing station owners) comprehensive program, ensuring best practices are followed from farm to cup. You can read more about RTC's impressive farmer training program here.

The story of Gitwe wouldn't be complete without mentioning Augustin, the station manager. Originally from Kigali, Augustin moved to Gitwe in 2018 seeking a healthier lifestyle after a period of ill health. Since embracing the mountain air and managing the station, he hasn't been sick since! His dedication and passion are reflected in the quality of the coffee produced under his watch.

This year, Gitwe is pushing boundaries and delighting palates with something truly exciting: their first-ever honey processed lots. And for this Gitwe 275, expect a nuanced cup profile with notes of Earl Grey tea, apricot, grapefruit, currant and pleasing hint of aniseed. This unique flavour profile is a result of the honey processing method, combined with the Red Bourbon varietal, which thrives in this region and is grown by all of Gitwe's farmers.

Gitwe 275 is more than just a coffee; it's a journey to the heart of Rwanda, a testament to the dedication of the farmers, and a celebration of the unique terroir of this remarkable region. We at Forge Valley Roasters are incredibly proud to offer this exceptional coffee, and we invite you to experience the magic of Gitwe for yourself.

Get your hands on Gitwe 275 today and discover why this small washing station has such a big reputation!