Mahembe – Rwanda

This coffee comes from the Mahembe Washing Station in Nyamasheke, Rwanda, a mill established in 2010 by Justin Musabyimana and now managed by his son, Willie. The washing station processes cherries from both Justin’s own 8-hectare farm and numerous surrounding smallholder farms. Grown at an altitude of 1,900 meters, this Red Bourbon lot showcases the high-potential terroir of a region that's gaining recognition for quality coffee. Despite intense competition for cherries, Justin’s long-standing relationships and fair pricing ensure consistent access to exceptional raw material.

This particular lot was processed using the anaerobic natural method, enhancing its complexity and depth in the cup. The arrival sample reveals a sweet and structured profile with papaya-like fruit, dense fruit notes, and a touch of lemongrass. With a cupping score of 87, it’s clear the meticulous attention to detail during processing—especially sorting and drying—has paid off. The cool climate in Rwanda further supports clean and controlled fermentation, allowing the intrinsic character of the coffee to shine.

Mahembe’s commitment to quality and sustainability stands out. In addition to strict protocols for cherry sorting and fermentation, the station produces organic fertiliser from coffee pulp, reducing waste and supporting environmental health. The result is a coffee that not only expresses the distinctiveness of its origin but also represents a meaningful investment in the community and land from which it comes.