IN THE CUP: Apple Crumble, Grape & Honey

Origin: Arusha, Tanzania | Producer: Mondul Estate | Variety: Red Bourbon |   Process: Washed | Altitude: 1800 MASL | Harvest: 2024

Tanzania is often overlooked when it comes to high-quality coffee, but it’s a country with extraordinary potential—producing coffees that are vibrant, complex, and deeply rewarding. Bloom is one such standout. Grown on the Mondul Estate, this washed AA Red Bourbon lot takes its name from a special parcel of land known as the Bloom Plot—a section set apart from the rest of the farm, located at the highest point of Mondul Mountain in the heart of Maasai land.

Mondul is one of three sister estates that share a commitment to sustainability and progressive agricultural practices. During peak harvest, the estates employ up to 5,000 seasonal workers, while maintaining a core team of around 200 permanent staff—all of whom are paid significantly above the national minimum wage. Their approach extends beyond the farm itself, with ongoing contributions to education, healthcare, and housing in the surrounding communities.

Environmental stewardship is equally central to their philosophy. The estates play a key role in conserving the Burka Forest—one of the last and largest indigenous forests in the region. Their efforts have led to a remarkable resurgence in biodiversity. Wildlife such as Dik Diks, Velvet monkeys, and even the last baboon colony in the area have returned, alongside rare species like the Madagascar Squacco Heron. Over 120 species of birds now call this landscape home, drawn by the natural grasslands and restored forest areas. To ensure the long-term protection of this ecosystem, the estate trains dedicated wildlife wardens responsible for its care and conservation.

But back to the coffee.

Mondul has its own on-site cupping lab, where each day's lots are meticulously tasted and assessed for quality. Sustainability is woven through every step of production — from using natural spring water to process the coffee, to repurposing cherry pulp into organic fertiliser.

“Bloom” is a washed AA Red Bourbon lot, showcasing a beautifully clean and balanced profile. Expect rich, buttery notes of baked apple and sweet almond, lifted by a subtle undercurrent of grape-like brightness. It’s incredibly easy-drinking — the kind of coffee you might find yourself sipping two cups of without even thinking.

*Our coffee is freshly roasted each week and orders are dispatched on Tuesday and Thursday for orders received by 12pm the day before.