This washed coffee originates from Saraguro, Ecuador, grown at Hacienda La Papaya (1900-2100 masl) by producer Juan Peña. The Mejorado varietal was depulped, washed with clean water, fermented underwater for 15 hours, and dried on raised beds. The cup presents mixed berries, acai, blackberry, and mulberry with white tea, vanilla ice cream, and cashew butter notes. Delicate floral characteristics include lavender, lilac, and jasmine with finishing notes of bergamot and pine.
Shoebox Coffee Roasters is a Chicago based micro roastery focused on light roast profiles that emphasize acidity, complexity, and fruit forward flavors. Founded by Maxwell, who previously roasted for Jimmy Beans, the operation is built around sourcing and small batch production. Shoebox conducts origin trips to build direct relationships with farmers, including work with Hacienda La Papaya in Saraguro, Ecuador, sourcing varietals like Mejorado, Sidra, and Geisha. New coffee drops are released every Sunday, roasted and shipped fresh. It is a young roastery that has quickly earned a following in the specialty coffee community for the quality and intentionality of its sourcing.
