At Hala Tree Coffee, the journey from coffee bean to cup is an artful process that involves meticulous care and dedication. Central to this process are the distinct methods of coffee bean processing—Washed, Honey, and Natural. Each method contributes unique flavors and characteristics to the final cup, creating a rich tapestry of taste for coffee enthusiasts. Let's delve into the details of these processing methods and explore the differences that make each one special.

Washed Process: Unveiling Clean Complexity 

The Washed process, also known as the wet process, is a method that emphasizes cleanliness and precision. Here's how it works:

• Harvesting: Coffee cherries are carefully handpicked at peak ripeness to ensure optimal flavor development.
• Pulping: The outer skin of the cherries is removed to expose the beans. This is often done mechanically, and the beans are left covered in a layer of mucilage.
• Fermentation: The beans, still coated in mucilage, undergo fermentation, which helps break down any remaining pulp and sugars. This stage contributes to the clean and bright profile of washed coffees.
• Washing: The beans are thoroughly washed to remove the remaining mucilage. This meticulous process leaves behind a coffee bean ready for drying.
• Drying: The washed beans are dried in the sun or using mechanical dryers. The result is a clean, vibrant coffee with bright acidity and distinct flavor notes.

Honey Process: Balancing Sweetness and Complexity 

The Honey process strikes a balance between the washed and natural methods, offering a unique profile that captures the sweetness of the fruit while retaining some of the complexities found in natural coffees.

• Harvesting: As with the washed process, cherries are selectively harvested to ensure ripeness.
• Pulping: The outer skin is removed, but unlike the washed process, a significant portion of the mucilage is intentionally left on the beans.
• Drying: The beans, still coated in mucilage, are dried. The sugars in the mucilage caramelize during the drying process, imparting sweetness and nuanced flavors to the beans.
• Processing Variations: Depending on the amount of mucilage left on the beans, honey process coffees can be classified as white honey, yellow honey, or red honey, each representing a different level of mucilage retention.

Natural Process: Embracing the Essence of the Bean 

The Natural process, also known as the dry process, is one of the oldest methods of coffee processing and allows the beans to interact directly with the fruit.

• Harvesting: Ripe cherries are harvested, and the entire cherry—skin, pulp, and bean—is left intact.
• Drying: The cherries are spread out in the sun to dry. As they dry, the fruit imparts its flavors directly onto the beans.
• Processing Variations: Natural process coffees can have a wide range of flavors, from fruity and wine-like to fermented and earthy. The drying time and conditions play a crucial role in shaping the final taste.

Hala Tree Coffee's commitment to quality is evident in its diverse processing methods, each offering a distinct sensory experience. Whether you prefer the clean and bright notes of the Washed process, the balanced sweetness of the Honey process, or the bold, fruit-forward profile of the Natural process, Hala Tree Coffee has something to satisfy every palate. As you savor your next cup, take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into each bean, from the careful harvest to the artful processing that brings out the best in every coffee varietal.