Bordering on Tanzania in the northeastern part of Burundi is the Muyinga coffee region. With an April to July harvest cycle, Muyinga region nestles near the crest of the Nile-Congo Ridge. Here the mild climate, volcanic soil, 1300mm annual rainfall, and an average elevation of 1,800 meters all converge to create ideal coffee growing conditions.
Here, farmers grow their own food, supplementing income by cash crops. Coffee is one of these. Because of their small size--most farms are between 50-250 trees, yielding only a few sacks total--and growers bring each day’s picking to their local washing station.
Be on the lookout for more exciting coffees from Burundi as the country continues to gain momentum in the specialty market. Similar to the best Rwandan coffees, Burundi offerings feature bold, intense flavor, a balanced savory-sweet pairing of citrus and chocolate spiciness, velvet body, and wine-toned acidity.