India parchment AB

Origin: Karnataka and Kerala (Western Ghats)

Profile: Clean, Nutty, and Mellow

India Parchment AB is a high-quality Washed Robusta. While “Cherry” refers to the natural (sun-dried) process, “Parchment” in the Indian grading system indicates that the coffee has been wet-processed. This involves removing the fruit skin and pulp before drying the beans, resulting in a cup that is significantly cleaner, brighter, and less “funky” than its natural counterparts.

The AB grade is a mix of Screen 15 and 16 beans. Because it is washed, it offers a more “Arabica-like” transparency and refinement, making it one of the most sophisticated Robusta options for roasters who want to avoid the rustic, earthy notes of traditional Robusta.

Flavour Experience

Body: Medium-full and smooth; less “heavy” than Cherry but more “velvety.”
Notes: Clean milk chocolate, toasted almonds, and cereal sweetness.
Acidity: Low, but with a slight, pleasant “crispness” not found in natural Robustas.
Finish: Short, clean, and nutty with no lingering bitterness.

Best Enjoyed As

India Parchment AB is the perfect “bridge” bean for specialty roasters:

The “Clean” Espresso Blend: Ideal for roasters who want the crema and body of a Robusta but need a flavor profile that doesn’t distract from the delicate notes of their Arabica.
High-End Commercial Drip: Provides a very smooth, reliable cup that tastes “premium” due to the washing process.
Medium Roasts: The washed process allows the sugars to caramelize into a lighter, “honey-nut” profile rather than the “dark cocoa” of a natural.

Why Choose “Parchment” over “Cherry”?

The choice between India Parchment and India Cherry depends entirely on the goal of your blend:

Choose Cherry (Natural): If you want maximum body, “wild” intensity, and a deep, chocolatey/earthy punch.
Choose Parchment (Washed): If you want a clean, “polite” Robusta that adds structure and caffeine without changing the flavor profile of your blend.

Quick Grade Comparison: Washed vs. Natural Robusta

Feature	India Cherry AB (Natural)	India Parchment AB (Washed)
Aroma	Pungent / Toasty	Mild / Nutty
Clarity	Rustic / Complex	Clean / Refined
Crema	Dark & Dense	Golden & Smooth
Primary Note	Dark Chocolate	Milk Chocolate