Roast level: Light Processing method: Natural Region: Cauca Producers: Manos Juntas Micromill Varietal: Castillo This is second year with an offering from the Manos Juntas Micromill. The quality is top-notch, and the goal of the Micromill is to simplify tasks and responsibilities for both producers and exporters. This coffee is candy sweet and juicy with notes of fresh raspberry, almond, and dark chocolate. About the process and the mill: This coffee is purchased in cherry form when delivered to the mill on the day of harvest. Upon arrival, the Brix and pH were recorded, and the cherries are placed in tanks for a five-day-long anaerobic fermentation: Each tank is labeled with the name of the producer, to retain traceability. During this period, nitrogen gas is introduced into the tanks in order to stimulate the yeast. Brix and pH are measured constantly through this process and are used to determine the stopping point for fermentation; the coffee is then subjected to 20°C temperatures in order to cease fermentation and remove the yeast and other microorganisms. The coffee in cherry is "aged" in tanks for a period of five more days before they are taken to solar dryers. Drying takes 30–45 days. Once dried, the coffee is cupped and samples are sent to the importer Cafe Imports where they are then approved, milled, and shipped - all before it is available to us for purchase.