Blind Assessment: Very sweet, high-toned, with savory underpinnings. Tangerine zest, cocoa nib, Bing cherry, amber, almond butter in aroma and cup. Tart-leaning but integrated structure with vibrant, juicy acidity; full, viscous mouthfeel. The finish is animated by notes of Bing cherry and amber.

Notes: This exceptional coffee was selected as the No. 25 coffee on Coffee Review’s list of the Top 30 Coffees of 2020.  Produced entirely from trees of Bourbon-related varieties of Arabica by members of the SOPACDI coop. Located overlooking Lake Kivu, on the opposite side of the lake from Rwanda, this rapidly growing cooperative now has nearly 6,000 members and apparently is succeeding in its goal to help heal wounds left by the latest in eastern Congo’s seemingly endless string of horrific rebellions and civil wars. A wet-processed or “washed” coffee (fruit skin and pulp are removed before drying); certified organically grown and fair trade. Conscious Cup Coffee Roasters is an independent and family-owned and -operated cafe and coffee roaster specializing in socially and environmentally sustainable coffees. Visit www.consciouscup.com or call 815-356-0115 for more information.

The Bottom Line: An especially juicy, high-toned DR Congo cup with notes of citrus zest and bright stone fruit grounded by earthy-perfumy amber-like suggestions.