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We are excited to share our latest Showcase coffee, hailing from Costa Rica.

This anaerobic coffee produces notes of cherry brandy, passionfruit and kiwi, wrapped in burnt sugar sweetness and a velvet-smooth finish. This is indulgent, fruit-forward and unapologetically luxurious. 

Cherry Velvet represents the highest quality coffee Small Batch produces. Released in bespoke packaging and with limited availability, it’s a coffee made to be savoured, slowly, and with intent.

This coffee has been expertly developed, with limited crop quantities harvest to ensure taste, quality and flavour - truly a high-grade coffee to appreciate and savour.

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Cafe Directo Coffee Farm. Father Daughter team

THE STORY OF GERADO AND JENNIFER ARIAS

Finca Casa de Piedra is one of two farms operated by Cafe Directo, a family business founded in 2013 by Father and daughter team, Gerardo and Jennifer Arias. The farm is dedicated to the production, processing, and marketing of the finest Costa Rican Tarrazú coffees in harmony with the environment. Directo’s vision is to contribute with the development of our society through fair and ethical trade. 

Its founders have over thirty years of experience in the production and processing of specialty microlots qualities including naturals, yellow, red, and black honey, anaerobic, semi-washed and fully washed processes. 

The unique conditions on the farm - in particular its microclimate and soil type, as well as elevations up to 1,800 masl - allow for a wide range of varieties to flourish, including Catuai, pacamara and gesha.

Cherry Velvet coffee cherries on a branch with a hand holding them amidst green leaves.

The full details of the Finca Casa de Piedra anaerobic process are a closely guarded family secret. However here is what we do know:

  • Cherry selection is paramount. Brix readings are taken to ensure the cherries are harvested at the optimum time.
  • The cherries are then pre-dried on cemented patios for 48 hours, prior to fermentation
  • Extended cherry fermentation is carried out in plastic tanks without valves.
  • Temperature is controlled throughout the fermentation process and Brix is monitored, as well as the aroma and appearance of the pulp.
  • After fermentation the cherries are dried on raised beds for an average of 30 days.
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How to enjoy Cherry Velvet at home

Cherry Velvet Brew Guide - Aeropress

How to craft a delicious Cherry Velvet coffee on an Aeropress at home, created by Wellington House Head Barista, Jude.

Cherry Velvet Brew Guide - V60

How to craft a delicious Cherry Velvet coffee on a V60 at home, created by Wellington House Head Barista, Jude.

Looking for more information?

What's the difference between a regular single origin and showcase coffee?

Across our blends and single origins, we always source high-grade, high-quality coffee from across the globe, so that every bean is traceable and has been produced in expert conditions to create standout flavour profiles. They are typically larger crops with regular availability

With showcase coffees, these are produced in much smaller quantities, grown and developed with specialised methods, and use innovative processing methods to create exciting and unique flavours not readily available in the coffee market. The farmers and producers themselves will be industry pioneers, looking to push the boundaries of sustainable and flavourful farming and production, to excite and delight coffee enthusiasts (and roasters!) around the world.

How long will my beans stay fresh?

We believe coffee beans are at their peak 10 days post-roasting, giving the beans time to rest and develop fully. Beans are best enjoyed 2-4 weeks from opening, and will keep fresh up to 6 months.

What taste/flavour profile does anaerobic processing create?

The anaerobic process typically creates very boozy, wine, full-bodied flavours. The process includes fermentation, where oxygen is added to the process.

Fermentation will begin as soon as a coffee is picked due to the presence of water, sugar, bacteria, and yeast. The sugars and acids in the coffee’s mucilage are then converted into different acids, CO2, ethyl alcohol, and other compounds.

The beans will ferment somewhat differently depending on whether they are washed, naturals, or honeys, therefore leading to a variety of flavors.

Can I buy Cherry Velvet in your cafes?

Our showcase coffees are an online exclusive, and very limited quantities, so we'd recommend purchasing online before we run out!

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