Mercedes Flores - Wet Process - 2023

Inviting aromas of orange marmalade, nougat, and milk chocolate introduce this elegantly balanced and nuanced coffee from producer Mercedes Flores. In the cup, crisp flavors of black tea and mandarin orange accompany a rich fruit sweetness evoking flavors of stewed plum and ripened persimmon. The entirety of Mercedes Flores’ three hectare farm is dedicated to coffee production, generally of bourbon and typica varieties. Along with her husband, Mercedes continues to increase the farm’s capacity with a keen eye for quality production and continued investment in infrastructure at the farm level.

This 2023 release from producer Mercedes Flores showcases the classic profile of the Bourbon varietal, a plant renowned for its balanced sweetness and complex acidity. Processed at the farm using the washed method, this coffee highlights the clean, focused character that typically results from removing the fruit flesh before drying. In the cup, the Passenger Coffee roast highlights a nuanced interplay of citrus and confectionary notes, ranging from bright mandarin orange and orange marmalade to the deeper, savory sweetness of nougat, milk chocolate, and stewed plum. While flavor wheel descriptors often vary based on roast degree and preparation, the presence of black tea and ripened persimmon suggests a sophisticated, layered experience. This lot serves as a compelling example of how meticulous wet processing can elevate the inherent qualities of a traditional cultivar, offering a refined cup that bridges the gap between vibrant fruit acidity and comforting, dessert-like undertones.