Organization: Leopard Forest Coffee, Travelers Rest, South Carolina
Coffee: Colombia Maragogipe Rainforest Alliance
Reviewed: February 2008
Overall Rating: 90 points
Aroma: 8
Acidity: 7
Body: 7
Flavor: 8
Aftertaste: 8
Roast (Agtron): Medium-Light (62/78)
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Origin: Antioquia Department, central northwest Colombia

Notes: Maragogipe (MAH-rah-go-ZHE-pay) is a variety of Arabica first discovered growing near the Brazilian town of the same name. It displays enormous bean size. But despite the showy appearance of the beans, it is not a popular variety with farmers because of low yields and an often thin, ordinary cup character. However, this particular Maragogipe from the traditional farm of El Boton in southwestern Antioquia Department, is delicate rather than thin and quietly distinctive, its subtle grace aided by a tactful light-roasted presentation. It is Rainforest-Alliance certified, meaning it was produced following sustainable ecological and socio-economic criteria developed by the Sustainable Agricultural Network, a coalition of independent, environment-focused non-governmental organizations. Leopard Forest is the brand name of a roasting company that features coffees from its own sustainably operated Zimbabwe farm as well as other fine coffees. Visit www.leopardforestcoffee.com or call 864-834-5500 for more information.

Blind Assessment: Lightly and sweetly acidy with delicately crisp floral, walnut and orange notes running from aroma through cup to the particularly impressive finish, where the sweetness peaks and the flavor notes consolidate and survive a slight tightness.

Who should drink it: Those who value delicacy in a breakfast coffee and/or those in pursuit of a novelty coffee with good cup character. Avoid dampening its delicacy with whitener or sweetener.

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