The Abateraninkunga Ba Sholi Cooperative, or Sholi Cooperative, meaning Mutual Assistance, was founded in 2008 by 30 women determined to invigorate Rwanda’s coffee market and their local community. Today nearly half of the members are women, and they are living up to the meaning of their name - their coffees have won the Rwandan Cup of Excellence Award for quality, resulting in lots being sold at a premium.

The coop has used these premiums to improve infrastructure - a second washing station, a community center, a regional health center, and a wastewater management facility have all been added to the community, providing necessary services.

Rwanda is known as the Land of a Thousand Hills, and although these conditions are perfect for growing coffee, it’s impossible to mechanize the harvest. All coffee is hand-picked and hand sorted. This microlot is A1 - Specialty Grade (the best) and is produced solely by women member farms.

The Rwanda Sholi is a fully washed Bourbon with complex flavors and mellow acidity, a little indulgence in a cup.

CUPPING ROOM NOTES

Stefano Bizzarri - I was initially attracted by the phenomenal story of this relative newcomer to the coffee producing industry. On the cupping table, this coffee stood out with delicious notes of orange and black tea accompanied by a unique juiciness.

Having the opportunity to meet Aimable, the managing director of the Sholi Washing Station, and brew the Rwanda Sholi together: priceless.

REGION Muhanga District
PRODUCER Sholi Cooperative
VARIETY Bourbon
GRADE A1 - Specialty Grade
ELEVATION 1800-2000 MASL
PROCESS Washed
TASTING NOTES Orange, Black Tea, Citrus
ROAST LEVEL Light

RECOMMENDED BREW METHODS Aeropress | Hario v60 | Chemex