China - Yunnan Baoshan, Gao Sheng Farm

TASTING NOTES: Strawberry Jam, Watermelon, Bubble Gum

GENERAL NOTES: Medium body (light roast), low acidity, and fruity finish

GROWING REGION: Baoshan

PROCESS: Washed

ALTITUDE: 1,350 Meters Above Sea Level (MASL)

CERTIFICATION: Fair Trade Certified

The coffee from Yunnan China is a true marvel, grown for centuries on the steep, rugged mountain ranges of Baoshan, where the world-renowned pu'er tea also flourishes. According to historical records, coffee was first introduced to Yunnan during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) by Arab traders. The local farmers gradually adopted coffee cultivation techniques and began to produce high-quality beans.

The farmers who cultivate these crops have honed their craft through countless generations, mastering the delicate balance between soil, climate, and plant to produce beans of the utmost quality. The bright acidity and fruity notes of Yunnan coffee are a testament to the unique terroir of the region, as well as the profound expertise and dedication of the farmers who labor tirelessly to bring these beans to life.

Though little known beyond its borders, Yunnan coffee is a rising star in the global coffee scene. This hidden gem is slowly gaining recognition for its complex and nuanced flavors, which represent a true reflection of the region's rich cultural heritage. By collaborating with roasters and baristas across the globe, these growers are spreading the gospel of Yunnan coffee far and wide, and helping to support the growth of the local coffee industry.

In a world where mass-produced and homogenized coffee dominates the market, Yunnan coffee is a beacon of hope. Its deep ties to the land and to the people who cultivate it make it a rare and precious commodity. As coffee lovers around the world continue to seek out new and exciting flavors, Yunnan coffee stands ready to capture their imaginations and inspire their palates.

The Gao Sheng Farm is a small, micro-lot producer, using 100% Arabica beans and producing a sweet, candy-like coffee. Some relate it to red bean desserts.