India — Plantation /AA 18

Origin: Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu (Western Ghats)

Profile: Spicy, Full-Bodied, and Low-Acidity

In the Indian grading system, “Plantation” refers to the highest quality category of Washed Arabica. The “A/AA” grade signifies the largest and finest beans (Screen 17/18), which are prized for their physical uniformity and clean flavor. Grown under a unique dual-canopy of shade trees—often alongside spices like cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon—Indian Arabica develops a distinct, “savory-sweet” character that is unlike any other origin.

Because it is wet-processed (washed), it maintains a much cleaner profile than the famous Indian Monsooned Malabar, focusing on clarity and spice rather than fermentation.

Flavour Experience

Body: Rich, syrupy, and creamy.
Notes: A warm, comforting blend of dark chocolate, baking spices (nutmeg and clove), and toasted walnut.
Acidity: Very low and mild—soft like a ripened pear.
Finish: Smooth and slightly savory with a lingering malt sweetness.

Best Enjoyed As

Indian Plantation A/AA is a master of versatility and a favorite for those who dislike the “sour” bite of high-acid coffees:

The Traditional Espresso: It produces an exceptional, thick crema and provides a spicy “kick” that holds up perfectly in milk-based drinks.
Moka Pot / Bialetti: The intense pressure of the Moka pot highlights the heavy oils and chocolate-spice notes.
The “European” Blend: Often used as a premium base in Italian-style blends to provide body and a spicy complexity without adding harsh bitterness.

The “A/AA” Quality Standard

Screen 17/18: These are the “bold” beans, ensuring that the coffee roasts evenly and looks beautiful in the hopper.
Shade-Grown: The dense shade of the Western Ghats slows down the ripening process, allowing the beans to absorb the subtle spicy characteristics of the surrounding flora.