Rwanda Gitwe

Perched at 1,800 meters in Rwanda’s Nyamasheke District, the Gitwe Washing Station has been a staple in our lineup since 2018. After tasting a standout sample on an origin trip that year, we immediately rerouted our journey to visit the site—and we’ve been fans ever since. With farms ranging from 1,800 to 2,000 meters in elevation and over 800 smallholder farmers contributing cherry, Gitwe has built a strong reputation for quality. Recent investments in water filtration and unique storage systems have only elevated their processing capabilities.

This fully washed lot exemplifies the station’s attention to detail and commitment to clean, vibrant profiles. In lighter roasts, Gitwe presents a fragrant bouquet of baking spices, honey, and light brown sugar, with delicate accents of spiced tea and malted grain.

Brewed, the cup offers bright, lemony acidity alongside sweet notes of caramel and black tea. A touch of tart dried green apple adds complexity, while the finish is brisk, clean, and refreshingly tannic—like a well-steeped cinnamon tea with a drizzle of honey. As it cools, nuanced notes of allspice and black tea emerge in the cup aroma, adding to the coffee’s graceful depth.