Origin | India
Region | Bababudangiri, West Ghats
Farmer(s) | Pearl Mountain Estate
Variety | Catuai and Caturra
Masl | 1,500 masl
Process | Washed
Harvest  | 2023/24
 
The Hindi word 'Ratnagiri' translates literally to 'Pearl Mountain', a reference to the dense silver oak canopy which crowns this farm. Ratnagiri was established in 1920 and is owned and operated by Ashok Patre, having been passed down from Grandfather, to father to son. Ashok Patre is a progressive. Well-traveled and bursting with initiative, he has drawn inspiration from elsewhere to step beyond the boundaries of traditional Indian coffee cultivation and processing. Brix levels are tested before harvesting. Processing includes natural, honey and fermentation experiments alongside the traditionally washed coffee.
 
For all intents and purposes Pearl Mountain Estate is an organic/biodynamic farm and also maintains official Rainforest Alliance Certification. Quarterly soil tests and organic corrections to soil are applied. Ionic seawater and seaweed extract are applied to improve plant immunity and sugar levels of the fruit. The estate is a lush shaded environment with 3 stories of shade. It is home to over 48 recorded bird populations, monkeys, leopards, wild boar, tigers, mongoose and - on occasion - elephants. The rich biodiversity demands that Ashok and his family have an approach to farming which places ecology and harmony with the environment at the forefront. This is a world class farm, truly one of the leading in India and a great example of Covoya and the farmer working together to engineer excellence.
 
Cup Score | SCA 85.5
Cup Profile | brown sugar, dates, honey
Brewing Methods | espresso, filter, manual pour-over, press