Strawberry Shortcake, Vanilla Bean, and Caramel
 
LIGHT ROAST
 
This Ecuador lot is complex and layered, with vibrant acidity and a dessert-like sweetness that feels fruit-driven and indulgent. This cup is characterized as vivid and expressive, highlighting fresh strawberry paired with a cream soda-like sweetness and a broadly tropical quality.
 
Variety: Bourbon and Typica
Process: Washed
Region: Quilanga in Loja
Elevation: 1600 - 1800 MASL
 
Farm Story and Impact: Ecuador, El Sauce is a communal lot from smallholder producers in and around the sub-region of Quilanga in Loja, Ecuador. Farms in El Sauce range from 1 to 5 hectares and sit at elevation between 1700 - 2100 meters above sea level. The lot is primarily composed a traditional Typica (locally known as Criollo) and Bourbon (70%) with remaining (30%) made up of Pacas, San Salvador, and Catimor.
 
Harvest takes place from May through August, with producers is following a consistent process: cherries are de-pulped and dry-fermented for 24 hours, then dried for 10 - 12 days depending on weather conditions.
 
While many producers in the region experience yield losses, EL Sauce’s higher elevations have helped preserved much of the Typica plantings. This harvest also include included early yeast-inoculation trials, laying the groundwork for improved quality and greater consistency in future seasons.