Discovering Burundi: The Hidden Gem of East African Coffee

Map of Burundi

Nestled in the heart of East Africa, the small landlocked nation of Burundi produces some of the world's most exceptional coffee beans. Despite its size—roughly the same as Maryland—this mountainous country has carved out a remarkable reputation in the specialty coffee world. At small beanz coffee co., we're proud to source beans from this unique origin, bringing you coffee that tells the story of Burundi's rich agricultural heritage and resilient people.

The Land of a Thousand Hills

Burundi, often called "the land of a thousand hills," shares borders with Rwanda, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. With a population of over 12 million people, agriculture forms the backbone of the economy, and coffee is the country's primary export crop. The nation's high altitude, volcanic soil, and favorable climate create ideal conditions for growing exceptional arabica coffee.

The country's coffee-growing regions are concentrated in the northern and central provinces, where elevations range from 1,200 to 2,000 meters (appx. 3,200ft to 6500 ft) above sea level. These high altitudes, combined with the equatorial climate and distinct wet and dry seasons, contribute to the slow maturation of coffee cherries—a key factor in developing the complex flavors Burundi coffee is known for.

Growing Conditions: Nature's Perfect Recipe

Burundi's coffee thrives in conditions that would challenge many other crops. The volcanic soil, rich in minerals and organic matter, provides essential nutrients that contribute to the coffee's distinctive flavor profile. The country experiences two rainy seasons—from February to May and September to December—which provide adequate moisture for the coffee plants without oversaturating the soil.

Temperature consistency is another crucial factor. Burundi's high-altitude regions maintain relatively stable temperatures year-round, typically ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This consistency allows coffee plants to develop slowly and evenly, concentrating sugars and acids that create the bright, clean flavors characteristic of Burundian coffee.

Most coffee in Burundi is grown by smallholder farmers who tend to plots averaging just half a hectare (1 hectare = 2.47 acres). These farmers often intercrop coffee with food crops like bananas, beans, and maize, creating sustainable farming systems that support both their families and the environment.

The Harvesting Journey: From Cherry to Bean

Coffee harvesting is a labor-intensive process that requires skill, patience, and perfect timing. The main harvest season runs from March to July, with peak picking occurring between April and June.

Coffee Washing Station in Burundi

Processing Methods

The majority of Burundi coffee undergoes the washed processing method, which highlights the bean's inherent flavors and acidity. Here's how the process typically unfolds:

1. Pulping: Fresh cherries are pulped within 24 hours of picking, removing the outer skin and fruit.

2. Fermentation: The beans, still covered in mucilage, ferment in tanks for 12-24 hours, breaking down the remaining fruit sugars.

3. Washing: Beans are thoroughly washed to remove all traces of mucilage.

4. Drying: Clean beans are spread on raised drying beds or patios, where they're regularly turned and monitored for 10-15 days until they reach optimal moisture content.

This meticulous process requires constant attention and expertise, as factors like fermentation time and drying conditions significantly impact the final flavor profile.

Flavor Profile: What Makes Burundi Special

Burundi coffee is celebrated for its bright acidity, medium body, and complex flavor notes. Typical tasting notes include:

• Bright citrus acidity reminiscent of lemon or orange

• Floral aromatics with hints of jasmine or lavender

• Fruit-forward flavors including red berries, stone fruits, or tropical notes

• Clean, crisp finish that leaves you wanting another sip

• Wine-like complexity that evolves as the coffee cools

These characteristics make Burundi coffee particularly well-suited for light to medium roasts that preserve the origin's unique terroir.

Coffee Cherries Drying in Burundi

Challenges and Resilience

Coffee farming in Burundi isn't without its challenges. The country has faced political instability, limited infrastructure, and climate variability that can affect crop yields. Many farmers lack access to modern agricultural techniques, quality processing equipment, and direct market connections.

However, the resilience of Burundian coffee farmers is remarkable. Through cooperatives and international partnerships, many producers are implementing sustainable farming practices, improving processing methods, and gaining access to specialty coffee markets that recognize and reward their exceptional quality.

Supporting Burundi's Coffee Future

When you choose Burundi coffee, you're not just enjoying an exceptional cup—you're supporting the livelihoods of thousands of smallholder farmers and their communities. The specialty coffee market's growing appreciation for Burundi's unique flavors is creating opportunities for farmers to invest in their farms, improve their processing capabilities, and build more sustainable futures.

At small beanz coffee co., we're committed to sourcing Burundi coffee that meets our high standards for quality while supporting ethical and sustainable practices. Every bag tells the story of dedicated farmers working in harmony with their environment to produce something truly special.

Burundi Coffee Tasting Notes

Brewing Burundi: Getting the Most from Your Cup

To fully appreciate Burundi coffee's bright, complex flavors, we recommend:

• Pour-over methods like V60 or Chemex that highlight clarity and brightness

• Water temperature between 195-205°F to extract optimal flavors (we have really been loving 204°F!)

• Medium-fine grind that allows for proper extraction without over-extraction

• Coffee-to-water ratio of 1:15 to 1:17 for balanced strength

Burundi coffee represents the perfect intersection of geography, climate, tradition, and human dedication. Each cup offers a journey to the hills of East Africa, where generations of farmers have perfected their craft despite countless challenges.

Ready to experience the unique flavors of Burundi for yourself?

Explore our current Burundi selection at CLICK HERE and discover why this small nation produces some of the world's most remarkable coffee.