This coffee is from Region Acevedo, Huila, Colombia, grown at 1400-1600 meters altitude by smallholder farmers including Brayan Alvear and team. It is processed using an experimental strawberry co-ferment method where cherries undergo 24-hour pre-fermentation, 24-hour aerobic fermentation, and 5-day anaerobic fermentation with dehydrated strawberry fruit, then dried mechanically for 10 days. The result is a fruit-forward cup with prominent strawberry notes and chocolate sweetness, suitable for both pour over and espresso brewing.
Pair Cupworks is a specialty micro roastery in Mesa, Arizona, founded by Kimhak Em and Eugenia Tai. Kimhak brings over 30 years of food service experience and a culinary background; Eugenia combines structural engineering with commercial illustration and handles the brand's visual identity. They began roasting in 2017, initially selling beans online while working day jobs, and opened their first coffee bar in 2020. Food & Wine Magazine named them Best Coffee Roaster in the state in 2022. They roast in small batches with the goal of developing clean flavours that respect the work of farmers and producers. Wholesale clients now stretch across the US and into Europe and Asia.
