If you take a closer look at these beans, you’ll notice something unusual: the beans are a little smaller and more rounded in shape compared to the usual half-sphere. This unusual bean shape is called a Peaberry, often shortened to PB.

Normally a coffee bean splits in two during development giving it the typical shape, but up to ten percent of crops can develop as peaberries.

Traditionally in countries other than Kenya, peaberries are not separated out and traded as a separate lot, but our sourcing partners at Nordic Approach have worked with several washing stations and producers in the Nyamasheke region to keep aside the highest quality peaberries, which is why we’re able to enjoy this coffee.

Most Rwandan farmers plant subsistance crops, with only ten percent of farmers growing coffee – but it’s already become a significant crop for trade, generating up around 40% of all export revenue.