Democratic Republic of Congo

Formerly known as Zaire, this central African country is one of the most dangerous in the world. They grow coffee on the other side of the mountains that some of Uganda grows coffee on, around Lake Kivu. Because of the landlocked geography, it is challenging to export their coffee outside of Africa, so this is a rare treat to be able to enjoy some. It took a group of several African business men to work together to get the quality of the Democratic Republic of Congo's coffee to specialty grade, and then to figure out how to get it across the border, to a port, and into the specialty market.

But here it is, and we are really enjoying it. One finds the typical sweetness of an African coffee, coupled with a smoky spiced taste and a little bit of mineral notes -- it's a great coffee. 

Democratic Republic of Congo Tasting Notes: copper, smoky, molasses