Montecristo Costa Rica

This Montecristo coffee varietal, meticulously cultivated and processed by Gonzalo Hernandez at Coffea Diversa in Costa Rica. Ben, Manhattan Coffee roastery’s coffee professional and roaster, commissioned this remarkable coffee to be processed using the innovative “hybrid washed” method, and the results have been nothing short of extraordinary.

Farm: Coffea Diversa
Producer: Gonzalo Hernandez
Country: Costa Rica
Micro Region: Biolley
Altitude: 1800 masl
Variety: Montecristo
Processing: Hybrid Washed

Expect notes of: christmas cake, green tea, black berry

Gonzalo Hernandez, a name well-known in our coffee community, has made significant contributions to the world of coffee through his work at the Coffea Diversa project in Costa Rica. What sets Gonzalo apart is his dedication to collecting and preserving an impressive private collection of botanical coffee varieties from around the globe, each meticulously tracked with genetic traceability.

In this edition, we shine a spotlight on the legendary Montecristo coffee varietal. Originating in Costa Rica during the 1930s, Montecristo is the product of a natural cross between the Bourbon and Typica coffee varieties. This varietal’s unique lineage and heritage make it a true gem among coffee connoisseurs.

The hybrid washed process involves a carefully orchestrated series of steps that bring out the best in the Montecristo beans. The process begins with cherries being fermented in aerobic tanks for 24 to 48 hours, or until the cherries reach the perfect level of ripeness. Following this, the coffee cherries are pulped and then subjected to a meticulously controlled drying process. This multi-stage drying approach is employed to ensure an exceptionally stable end product that maintains the unique flavour characteristics of Montecristo.

Let us know what you think of this month’s Rare coffee on social media by tagging us #slurprare @slurpkahvi