Arabica Washed Grade A S18

Arabica Washed Grade A Screen 18 — The Jewel of the Central Highlands

Vietnamese Arabica Washed Grade A S18 is a revelation for buyers who associate Vietnam exclusively with Robusta. Grown at 1,200 to 1,500 meters elevation in the cooler, mist-shrouded highlands above Buon Ma Thuot, this fully washed Arabica delivers a cup profile that rivals the finest offerings from Ethiopia, Colombia, and Central America.

High-Altitude Terroir

While Robusta thrives at 500m on the basalt plateau, Arabica requires the cooler temperatures and higher altitudes found in the mountainous terrain surrounding Buon Ma Thuot. At 1,200-1,500m, daytime temperatures rarely exceed 22°C, and nighttime temperatures can drop to 10°C. This dramatic diurnal temperature variation forces the coffee cherries to mature extremely slowly — often taking 9 to 11 months from flower to harvest — concentrating sugars, organic acids, and aromatic compounds to an extraordinary degree.

The soil at these elevations remains volcanic in origin, sharing the mineral richness of the lower basalt plateau but with a lighter, more well-drained structure that Arabica roots prefer.

Fully Washed Processing

After hand-picking only fully ripe cherries, the fruit skin is mechanically pulped away. The beans are then fermented in clean water tanks for 12-36 hours, allowing natural enzymes to dissolve the sticky mucilage layer. Following fermentation, the beans are thoroughly washed in clean water channels, then sun-dried on raised African beds to the standard 12.5% moisture content.

This meticulous washed process removes all fruit residue, producing a cup of exceptional clarity and brightness — allowing the pure terroir character of the highland soil to shine through without the masking effect of dried fruit sugars.

Flavor Profile

• Aroma: Floral (jasmine, honeysuckle) with citrus zest — strikingly aromatic
• Acidity: Bright, lively, and structured — reminiscent of Kenyan SL28 at its best
• Flavor: Citrus (orange, grapefruit), stone fruit (peach, apricot), honey sweetness
• Body: Silky and medium — elegant rather than heavy
• Aftertaste: Lingering sweet tea and floral notes

Ideal For

Specialty single-origin programs, filter/pour-over brewing showcases, light to medium roast profiles, premium blend components where acidity and aromatic complexity are desired. Packaged in 60kg jute bags or 30kg GrainPro bags to preserve the delicate aromatic compounds during transit.