Weanie Beans: Nicaragua, Santa Luz Estates - El Penon, Washed

Set on west facing slopes in Jinotgea, near the northern border with Honduras, Santa Luz Estates benefits from rich, volcanic soil.

Here, the growers have methodically divided the estate into smaller farms to separate varieties and processing methods. The cherries are then hand picked and washed in clean water, and dried at low temperatures to ensure a smooth and consistent flavour profile.

This particular variety, H3, was first planted on the estate in 2015 and is actually a cross between Caturra and an Ethiopian Heirloom, specifically suited to growing above 1300 MASL.

It was produced as part of a first wave of hybrid varieties, bringing with it a bright and smooth flavour, whilst also offering more resistance to the horrendous leaf rust disease.