Silent Springs LaurinaCalifornia Laurina

This is Laurina, a unique varietal that has 50% less caffeine than typical Arabica coffees. It was grown at Silent Springs, a farm nestled in the rugged backcountry of Moorpark, California. The farm is unique for growing coffee inside tunnels, a technique borrowed from Ventura County’s expert berry growers. These tunnels allow greater control over growing conditions and provide protection from coastal winds and occasional frosts.

The cherries were meticulously picked at peak ripeness and then fermented aerobically for two days. Drying took place outside on African-style beds and in a climate-controlled indoor drying room for up to 20 days. The resulting cup offers a comforting profile that marries baked apple, cinnamon, and caramel with a soothing cocoa backdrop. It’s a wonderful winter warmer that makes for an excellent afternoon or early evening pick me up.

Laurina is a natural mutation of the Bourbon varietal that was first discovered on the French territory of Réunion Island. Originally known as “Bourbon pointu” due to its uniquely pointed beans, Laurina has more recently been dubbed “Leroy” (after Leyroi, meaning “the king” in French) and “Laurina” (a reference to the Laurel tree, which it resembles). These royal monikers hint at Laurina’s reputation, as it has been a favored choice for dignitaries like Louis XV, Winston Churchill, and French President Jacques Chirac.