Burundi Rubagabaga

Rubagabaga is a washing station in Butare, in the Kayanza region of northern Burundi. It has been in operation since 1992 and is currently managed by Greenco. Cherries are brought here from about 2,700 small local farmers who cultivate plots smaller than one hectare at elevations ranging from 1,600 to 1,900 meters. This is the classic Burundian mosaic—no large plantations, but hundreds and hundreds of micro-plots that, when combined, produce a lot with a surprisingly consistent character. Kayanza is known for its coffee, but also for its banana trees and clay soil, which is traditionally used to fire roof tiles and bricks.

This Red Bourbon takes full advantage of these conditions: the altitude, fertile soil, and ideal climate all contribute to its sweetness, acidity, and aromatic complexity. The cherries are hand-picked, sorted by flotation and hand-sorting, washed with clean water, and dried on raised beds for about two weeks. The result is a clean, sweet, and elegant coffee that doesn’t hide its origins—look for raspberries, orange, and a hint of eucalyptus in the cup.