Perú is a land of stark contrasts - high mountains, dense jungles, and barren deserts occupy this small country, all within close proximity. Peruvian territory was home to the Norte Chico civilization, one of the oldest in the world, and to the Inca Empire, the largest state in Pre-Columbian America. Relatively new to coffee cultivation, the areas of Northern Peru provide excellent growing conditions. The weather is characterized by year-round high temperatures and heavy rains from October through March, which soak into the beans and increase Perú's coffee yield.

In some ways, Perú has almost too much altitude. As a result, the range in quality is as varied as the landscape. In ideal conditions, high-elevation coffees develop much more slowly: with this attenuated time-frame, the beans have an opportunity to develop unique, complex flavors. Our Peruvian is a definite winner, revered for its delicate acidity and sweet round cup. Peruvian coffees are not universally exquisite, which makes us that much more proud to have secured beans from this surprising, mature harvest. These are, by far, the best Peruvian beans we've ever had in the shop.

This is a beautifully balanced organic cup, bright and clean with the essence of dark chocolate, pinion, oak and forest herbs. Expect a smooth, solid character with subtle cherry notes, a hint of milky chocolate, and a spicy, dry almond finish.