India: Pearl Mountain

Nestled in the renowned Bababudangiri region of India's Western Ghats, Ratnagiri Estate—meaning "Pearl Mountain"—has been producing exceptional coffee for over a century. Established in the 1920s and now led by third-generation producer Ashok Patre, the estate has earned a reputation for blending tradition with innovation. While preserving classic washed processing methods, Ashok continuously refines farming practices through careful cherry selection, soil management, and sustainable cultivation.

Coffee is grown between 1,150 and 1,350 meters under a lush multi-layer canopy of silver oak, pepper vines, and cardamom, creating an ideal environment for slow cherry maturation. The fully washed process includes meticulous hand-sorting, 42–72 hours of fermentation, and washing with fresh mountain stream water, resulting in a clean, refined cup. Managed with organic and biodynamic principles and certified by the Rainforest Alliance, Ratnagiri Estate is also home to remarkable biodiversity, making it one of India's most respected coffee farms. This lot features a blend of Catimor, Catuai, SLN6, and SLN9 varieties that showcase the heritage and craftsmanship of one of India's premier coffee estates.

Tasting Notes: Macadamia, citurs zest, white grape