In anticipation of some exciting coffees from Ecuador we have planned for release in a few weeks, this month’s Archival Release features a 2021 harvest of La Tortuga from the Galápagos Islands.

Originally released as an Education Lot, this community blend of typica, caturra, and bourbon varieties, offers a fascinating example of the impact of unique microclimates on specialty coffee production. At just 250 meters above sea level, this coffee is remarkably low grown. Nonetheless, it exhibits the quality of a much higher grown coffee thanks to the fortuitous environmental impact of the oceanic Humboldt Current that flows through the waters surrounding the Galápagos.

Aromatically we notice a uniquely savory quality reminiscent of rich browning sugars, cocoa, and sweet garden vegetables. In the cup, a creamy milk chocolate body accompanies comforting flavors of marzipan, red apple, and mild baking spices.