Uganda Natural Liberica Excelsa

We are excited about this one! Liberica is a different species of coffee, and it’s the first time we have brought it to you. Every other origin of the month has been an Arabica coffee. We have brought you two Robustas, Vietnam (which some of you call your favorite), and the India Cherry Robusta that some of you are still ordering today.

We have known about Liberica coffees for some time now and have been tracking them, waiting for one to come out with a cup score high enough (over 80) to offer as an origin of the month. We finally found one. You will be pleased with the uniqueness of this coffee.

Before I go on to describe this coffee, I want to share some information about the species itself.

Liberica coffees are native to Western Africa. Unlike Arabica, Liberica trees thrive in lower altitudes and hotter temperatures. Arabica trees like high altitude and for temperatures to be between 60 and 80 degrees. Liberica coffees are known for bold and robust flavors, yet are lower in acidity, which helps make them smooth. The mouthfeel of Liberica coffees is full-bodied and syrupy. Liberica coffees are known for a woody, smoky, nutty, spicy profile with strong, intense flavor notes. Their boldness and robustness are enhanced by a darker roast profile.

Liberica coffee trees grow to heights of 32 feet, a little more than twice the height of Arabica trees. The Liberica coffee tree also has much larger leaves than Arabica trees. Like Robusta trees, Liberica trees are disease and pest resistant and are drought tolerant. All of this makes life better for Liberica coffee farmers.

Now for the description of this particular coffee. It was grown in Uganda’s Lowero district in the Central Region by various farmers holding less than 5 acres, at elevations of only 3200- 3900 feet above sea level. It was processed using the natural process, where only the ripest coffee cherries are harvested and sun-dried whole with the fruit of the cherry still intact. Workers turn the cherries at regular intervals to ensure even drying and airflow, which also prevents spoilage.

This coffee definitely exhibits the woody, smoky, nutty characteristics of a Liberica, but there is a very prominent flavor note that I can’t quite put my finger on. I don’t know what it is, but I know it has a stranglehold on me. I find myself thinking about it quite a bit. Maybe, this note will be clear for some of you. It is a must-try for sure.