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Rwanda Coko Cooperative

by Dolores Dickson 

Coko, a small Rwandan cooperative, understands expanding production is foolish if their quality level drops. They have embraced their unique circumstances, like steam embraces the soft pillows of Uncle Ben. This co-op uses a Colombian washing-station instead of the traditional fermentation process, and their coffee comes from the closely surrounding area. The resulting cup quality is terrific plus some. This situation has allowed Coko to start an independent co-op on a site with little access to water – a situation fit like a glove for their amazing fermentation process.

Coko is a warm, intimate cup that highlights the best characters of Rwandan coffee. The dry fragrance is floral with glorious rays of citric sun. The cup has a defined finish that kicks back on a savory clove note – imagine the affectionate baby of a vanilla bean and twiggy spice wrapped warm in a blanket of Meyer lemon peels. This is the perfect cup of hearty affection for those sweater days and attitudes.

The full city roast level tastes of cocoa with a bit of carmelization. The roast has melon and floral whiffs from the first sip on the surface, and a total cherry eclipse of the heart of the cup as it finishes. The body is clear with friendly support from a creamy mouthfeel. This pleasant roast makes for a cup with super-mega-ultra character.