Single Origin

Like the finest wines, single origin coffees come from a specific geographical area that is known for the extraordinary quality of its beans, and the care with which they are processed.

Some single origin coffees come from estates, and are processed entirely on a single plot of privately owned land. Estate coffees reflect the unique characteristics of their soil, microclimate and "signature" processing methods.

Other origins, called co-operative coffees, are produced by a select group of independent local farmers who bring their best coffee to a shared milling (processing) facility where it is blended together, milled and sold. The best co-operative coffees are exceptionally well-integrated, reflecting the primacy of good production values. Most organic and all fair trade single origin coffees are from co-operatives.