Region, Country: Mbale, Uganda
Producer: Smallholder producers
Farm: Bloom Silverback
Elevation: 1,500 – 3,050 masl
Process: Natural
Variety: SL14, KP162, SL28, KP423
Sourcing Partner: InterAmerican NKG
Tasting Notes: Strawberry, Black Plum, Nectarine
Producer Background:
This coffee is sourced from Bulambuli, a district in Eastern Uganda at the base of Mt. Elgon. As part of their Bloom initiative, Ibero, a partner of InterAmerican NKG, built the Bulambuli Washing Station for the community of local cooperatives and smallholder producers living in the area in 2022. This washing station serves as a resource for producers to process their cherries and learn about best agriculture and business practices, such as soil analysis, fertilizer application, and money management skills. Smallholder producers have collaborated to release collective lots under the name Silverback. Silverback’s namesake is inspired by the Silverback gorillas, known for their intelligence, communication, capacity for empathy, and deep family bonds. This year’s release is the first arabica offering from Bloom Silverback!
Processing info:
The harvest season in this region can start as early as September through early February. Producers belonging to co-ops and smaller farms bring their cherries to Bulambuli Washing Station throughout this time. Once cherries are collected, they are floated to remove any low-density beans, sticks, or leaves, ensuring everything meets a standard quality and weight. Next these cherries are brought to the drying yards in Mbale, where they are diligently monitored for even drying.