Honduras: Organic 18 Rabbit Red, Marcala

The name “Honey Process” actually comes from how sticky the beans get during processing. This type of processing coffee beans is halfway between a washed coffee and a natural process coffee: it’s fruity, but not in as exaggerated a way as some naturals. It often has a more rounded acidity than washed coffees, with intense sweetness and complex mouthfeel. Typically, the more mucilage left on the bean, the sweeter the taste. Subcategories have developed based on the amount of mucilage that is left as well as their drying times: yellow, red, golden, black, and white honey.

18 Rabbit is a collective of farms in Honduras that are female owned by Senora Flhor, her mother, and different members of the Zelaya Ontreras family. Dulce Marlen, the owner of Finca Dulce Luna, is the matriarch of the family, and owner of 18 Rabbit exports. She and her husband paved the way for organic and biodynamic farming practices, being intentional about naturally regenerating the soil they use for their agriculture. Members of this family have placed in the top 10 for Honduras’ Cup of Excellence, and work together to create these unique fermentations you’ll find in these coffees.

The Red Honey Process is fermented for 24 hours, and mostly at night in the cool weather. The cooler weather creates a slower ferment that you can taste in this coffee.

Cupping Notes: Aromas of strawberry, raspberry, and cherry that carry over into the cup with a heavier body and mild fruit notes of graham cracker, and walnuts. Balanced acidity and sweetness, well rounded, smooth, and juicy.