Rwanda Sholi Women's Lot Washed

FARM/CO-OP: Sholi Cooperative REGION: Muhanga District, Southern Province ORIGIN: Rwanda VARIETY: Bourbon PROCESSING METHOD: Washed ELEVATION: 1,800m

TASTE: Mandarin | Black Tea | Honeysuckle

ROAST: Light

In the Muhanga District of Rwanda's Southern Province, Abateraninkunga ba Sholi ("Sholi") Cooperative has been producing coffee and working to uplift their community for nearly a decade. Their name means "Mutual Assistance," which speaks to the cooperative's commitment not only to growing great coffee, but to the care and support of their entire community. The origins of the Sholi Cooperative are found in a women's association in the community called "Kundwa", meaning "love", and today over a third of Sholi's members are women. OZO is proud to be partnering with Sholi for the third year in a row in celebration of the women in the coffee industry in all areas of the supply chain. This year, we have the opportunity to feature two women's lots from Sholi, a naturally processed lot and also this washed lot. This washed Red Bourbon is a celebration of the classic flavor profile of Rwanda, with notes of mandarin and black tea, paired with complex and sweet florals.

Read the story behind this incredible coffee →

The Rwanda Sholi Women's Lot, roasted by Ozo Coffee, represents a focused selection from the Sholi Cooperative in the Muhanga District of Rwanda’s Southern Province. Grown at 1800 masl, this lot features the Bourbon varietal, which is widely recognized for its balanced sweetness and complex acidity. Because this coffee undergoes a washed process, the inherent characteristics of the bean are highlighted with a clean, crisp profile.

In the cup, this selection presents bright notes of mandarin, black tea, and honeysuckle. While individual experiences vary, those exploring the flavor wheel may find that washed coffees often emphasize clarity and delicate aromatics. By supporting the Sholi Women's Lot, drinkers engage with a specific production effort that prioritizes regional quality and cooperative labor. This coffee serves as a refined example of the high-elevation output currently emerging from the Southern Province, showcasing the distinct potential of Rwandan Bourbon when processed with precision.