In most ways, this is a quintessential Rwandan specialty coffee. It is comprised entirely of the Bourbon variety, as most Rwandan coffees are, and it is processed in the fully washed method, by a cooperative-run washing station. Because Rwandan coffee farmers are typically growing very small quantities, most of the great coffees we enjoy from the country come through the cooperative system. Thankfully, when well managed, these cooperatives help the farmers to make a living and improve their incomes by commanding better prices, as well as training them on how to achieve better harvests.

Vunga is a woman-led cooperative and is located in the Nyabihu District, North Western Region of Rwanda, It was established in March 2009 and consists of ~260 members. This tiny coffee washing station is hidden in between the trademark steep hills of Nyabihu and thousands of plantain and banana trees. The station receives its water from the natural source from the nearby and famed Virunga National Park.

In 2017 Muraho Trading Company began a new partnership with the Vunga Cooperative Families. Even though Vunga has placed twice in the Rwanda Cup of Excellence competitions both in 2012 and 2014 the station severely lacked efficiency and infrastructure when Muraho started partnering. In their first year of partnership, they guided the Vunga family to a record-breaking year, while improving their quality and infrastructure as well as being able to offer bonus second payments and health insurance to their farmers.

Phaedon's tasting notes

This coffee is pretty subtle. I'd venture to say that it lends itself quite well to espresso or espresso-like brews, where the concentrated beverage can amplify some of those quieter notes. With the benefit of that amplification, this coffee offers some lovely bright and fruity flavours to enjoy, most reminiscent of orange to my palate but perhaps with a touch of apple as well.

Cedar's notes

"This time we present to you Rwanda Vunga, if you have been following us from the start you will notice that this was one of our first ever releases when we started our journey. It's a pleasure to shine light back on this amazing cooperative on this years harvest. 

Vunga Cooperative is  a small but vibrant community of farmers dedicated to producing high-quality coffee. Led by President Uwimana Daphrose, the cooperative has formed a partnership with Muraho Trading Co, which provides export and financing capabilities to help them increase their quality and reach new markets.

This cooperative showcases the unique terroir of Rwanda. The coffee is grown, harvested, and processed with care, resulting in a complex and nuanced flavour profile. The processing method involves washing, fermentation in concrete tanks, and drying in parchment, which brings out the coffee's distinct characteristics.

This coffee offers a distinct flavour profile depending on the brewing method. When brewed as a filter coffee, it reveals notes of hibiscus tea and cranberries, with a light mouthfeel and juicy finish. As an espresso, it transforms into a rich and intense shot with notes of naartjie, citrus acidity, and sweet dried cranberry. In milk-based drinks, it takes on a light and fluffy texture, reminiscent of pancakes."

• Cup Profile: Naartjie, Dried Cranberries, Pancakes.

Coffee details from Cedar

• Farm/Producer: Vunga Washing Station
• Region: Nyabihu District
• Country: Rwanda
• Process: Washed
• Altitude: 1,450 - 1,600 masl
• Variety: Red Bourbon

You can find more coffees from Cedar here.