Mpemba

The village of Mpemba, a tiny and tranquil hamlet tucked into the rolling hills of Burundi’s Kayanza province, is home to the Kazoza N’Ikawa cooperative. In the Kirundi language, Kazoza N’Ikawa translates to “the future is coffee”—a name hinting at the commitment to quality exemplified by its members. The coffees we buy from the co-op are not only our favorites from Burundi but across the entire region. This washed lot exhibits all of the hallmarks that make Burundian coffees so unique. Look for juicy top notes of clementine intermingled with flavors of honey and a tea-like body.

Pronunciation: PEM-bah

Sourced from the Kayanza region of Burundi, the Mpemba lot represents the meticulous work of the Kazoza N’Ikawa cooperative. This coffee is prepared using the washed process, a method typically employed to highlight the inherent clarity and acidity of the bean. By removing the fruit flesh before drying, producers often achieve a cleaner cup profile that emphasizes the specific terroir of the high-altitude hillsides where these trees are cultivated.

Offered by Counter Culture Coffee, this selection features tasting notes of clementine and honey. While these descriptors provide a starting point for your sensory experience, you may find it helpful to consult the flavor wheel to identify additional nuances as the cup cools. Washed coffees from this region are frequently celebrated for their bright, citrus-forward character and balanced sweetness, making this a compelling example of the cooperative's commitment to quality processing and careful post-harvest management.