Banka (sold out)

Coffee was first introduced to China in the 1800s by French missionaries in Yunnan. This initial introduction did not lead to any commercial scaling. In the 1960s government  initiatives were introduced to increase production and commercial interest but this had little affect. Not until a fresh round of government schemes in the late 80s did coffee in China get the kick start it needed. Although in speciality it is still very much an emerging origin.

Mr Hu is a Yunnan native who has been producing coffee For 20 years. He founded Banka farm and washing station, working with various smallholders and employing 100s of people. The management of the station has been taken over by the Yunnan Coffee Traders, who as well as experimenting with new processing techniques introduced new varieties and the region’s first optical sorter. 

Expect sticky sweet cherry compote notes with creamy chocolate mouthfeel and a caramel sweetness.

The Banka lot, produced by Mr. Hu in the Yunnan region of China, represents a compelling example of the country’s burgeoning specialty coffee scene. Roasted by Caravan Coffee Roasters, this selection highlights the potential of Yunnan-grown beans to deliver a rich, dessert-like profile. While this specific lot is currently sold out, it serves as a notable reference point for those exploring the evolving flavor landscapes of East Asian coffee production.

When evaluating coffees with profiles like sticky sweet cherry compote, creamy chocolate, and caramel sweetness, it is helpful to reference a flavor wheel to better categorize these distinct sensory experiences. Generally, coffees from Yunnan are increasingly recognized for their balanced acidity and approachable sweetness, often bridging the gap between traditional nutty profiles and more vibrant, fruit-forward characteristics. Understanding these nuances allows enthusiasts to better appreciate the meticulous work producers like Mr. Hu contribute to the global market.