The Fermentation Project

One coffee. Four fermentations.

We're incredibly proud to be part of this unique project, giving coffee lovers the opportunity to taste how fermentation alone can shape the final cup. Even more exciting, everyone who purchases a set will have the opportunity to join a live online cupping hosted by James Hoffmann on 3 October, where coffee lovers from around the world will taste and discuss these four coffees together.

All four coffees come from Finca San Miguel Urias in Guatemala's genuine Antigua Valley, owned by Hector and Lilian Leal and processed under the guidance of fermentation specialist Lucia Solis. Every lot is from the same harvest, the same varieties (approximately 85% Caturra, 15% H1 with a small amount of Bourbon), and processed identically apart from one variable: the fermentation method.

Fermentation is an essential step in washed coffee processing, helping remove the sticky fruit surrounding the seed before drying. But it is also one of the biggest opportunities to influence flavour. By changing only the microorganisms responsible for fermentation, producers can create remarkably different cup profiles while keeping everything else exactly the same.

This project allows you to taste those differences side by side.

Important Dates

Roasting: 17 September

Shipping: 21 September (your order will not be shipped before that, including other items in your order)

Live Online Cupping with James Hoffmann: 3 October

The Four Coffees

Mechanically Washed

The mucilage is removed mechanically with little to no fermentation, resulting in a clean, transparent cup that highlights the coffee's natural character.

Wild Fermentation

Naturally occurring yeasts and bacteria drive fermentation, creating a complex and expressive cup with vibrant fruit and floral notes.

Yeast Inoculated

A selected yeast strain guides fermentation, enhancing sweetness, fruit intensity and aromatic complexity while increasing consistency.

Lactobacillus Inoculated

Selected lactic acid bacteria create a creamier texture, softer acidity and a beautifully rounded sweetness.

Tasting Box comes with 4 × 100g bags