Driftaway Coffee Rwanda Southern Province Nyarusiza Blend Review

By

Bryan Huynh

on September 29, 2024

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Introduction 

The world of specialty coffee is broad so how can you decide which one is right for you? Hopefully, this review will give you a better grasp of the many sorts of blends and how to determine if they suit your taste preferences. This review will go into the distinct and enticing aromas of Driftaway Coffee's Rwanda Southern Province Nyarusiza Blend. Driftaway Coffee is known for acquiring high-quality beans from a variety of sources and roasting them to perfection. This blend highlights the rich and nuanced qualities of coffee cultivated in Rwanda's Southern Province, notably in the Nyarusiza district.

Prepare to be captivated by the intriguing scent, excellent flavor, and entire experience of Driftaway Coffee's Rwanda Southern Province Nyarusiza Blend. As you open the bag, the alluring smell fills the air, giving you a taste of the delicious tastes that lie you within. Prepare for a journey into the deep nuances of this blend's taste profile, discovering its distinct notes and the ideal balance it provides.

Immerse yourself in the background story of these extraordinary beans as we dig into Rwandan coffee culture, precise cultivation processes, and the unshakable passion of the local farmers who contribute to this special blend. Furthermore, we will examine Driftaway Coffee's persistent dedication to sustainability and ethical sourcing, providing you with a better knowledge of the company's beliefs and the influence of your coffee choices.

Whether you are a seasoned coffee connoisseur or a curious newcomer, this review will give you an in-depth look at Driftaway Coffee's Rwanda Southern Province Nyarusiza Blend. Expect to be amazed by a world of tastes, traditions, and specialty coffee brewing artistry. Continue reading below for our full review on this delightful coffee adventure and expand your taste buds with this exceptional blend. Check out our Coffee Clubs page to compare and read reviews of our favorite coffee clubs!

Background

Driftaway Coffee is a Brooklyn-based specialty coffee business. Driftaway Coffee, founded in 2014 by Anu Menon and Suyog Mody, has acquired a reputation for its dedication to quality, sustainability, and individualized coffee experiences. They work directly with coffee growers all around the world, cultivating direct trade ties that assure equal pay and long-term practices. Driftaway Coffee has a wide variety of single-origin and blended coffees, with an emphasis on showcasing the distinct flavors and characteristics of each bean. Customers can customize their coffee shipments depending on their taste preferences with their unique coffee subscription service. Driftaway Coffee has become a favorite among coffee connoisseurs looking for outstanding coffee and meaningful relationships with the coffee-producing community, thanks to its commitment to ethical sourcing and involvement in the community.

Summary 

Driftaway Coffee's Rwanda Southern Province Nyarusiza Blend is a captivating and distinctive coffee offering that combines beans sourced from the Southern Province of Rwanda, specifically the Nyarusiza region. The coffee cherries are carefully harvested and processed using washing methods, resulting in a unique flavor profile.

The blend consists of a carefully selected varietal of bourbon coffee beans, showcasing the exceptional quality and characteristics of Rwandan coffee. The beans are roasted to perfection, ensuring optimal flavor development while preserving the intrinsic qualities of the region.

Grown at high elevations of 1,750 meters in the Southern Province, the coffee beans benefit from the favorable climatic conditions and nutrient-rich soils. This elevation imparts a desirable complexity to the flavor profile of the blend.

When it comes to tasting notes, the Rwanda Southern Province Nyarusiza Blend is known for its well-balanced and nuanced flavors. Expect to savor delicate floral notes, vibrant fruity acidity, and hints of berries and buttery undertones. The blend offers a harmonious combination of flavors that can be enjoyed by both seasoned coffee enthusiasts and those new to specialty coffees.

Driftaway Coffee's Rwanda Southern Province Nyarusiza Blend is a testament to the dedication of the local farmers, the unique characteristics of Rwandan coffee, and the craftsmanship of Driftaway Coffee in sourcing and roasting beans. It invites coffee lovers to indulge in a rich and satisfying coffee experience that encapsulates the essence of the Southern Province of Rwanda.

Fun Fact: Bufcoffee developed a primary school for children in 2019 near to the Nyarusiza washing facility. Beyond coffee manufacturing, the firm is dedicated to the entire well-being of the local population. They install water sanitary systems, supply farmers with health insurance, and provide school fee assistance. Bufcoffee also promotes sustainable agricultural techniques by providing cows, who not only offer organic fertilizer but also help in the manufacturing of organic composts. Bufcoffee has a significant influence on the lives of farmers and their families by supporting education, health, and environmental sustainability in the region through these projects.

Origin: Rwanda Region: Southern Province Processing: Washed Varietal: Bourbon Roast: Light roast Elevation: 1750 meters Tasting Notes: Floral, Berries, Buttery

Pros

  • Unique Flavor Profile: Driftaway Coffee's Rwanda Southern Province Nyarusiza Blend offers a distinctive flavor experience with its dynamic combination of florals and fruit. The blend showcases the unique characteristics of Rwandan coffee, providing a memorable and enjoyable cup.
  • Ethical Sourcing: Driftaway Coffee is committed to ethical sourcing practices, working directly with coffee farmers and ensuring fair compensation for their efforts. By supporting this blend, you contribute to the sustainable livelihoods of the farmers and their communities.
  • Social Impact: Through initiatives like the Bufcoffee school, water sanitary systems, health insurance for farmers, and school fee scholarships, Driftaway Coffee actively contributes to the well-being and development of the Rwandan coffee community. Choosing this blend helps support these positive social initiatives.
  • Sustainability: Driftaway Coffee's dedication to sustainability is reflected in their sourcing practices and commitment to environmental stewardship. By opting for this blend, you contribute to a more sustainable coffee industry.

Cons

  • Availability: Driftaway Coffee's Rwanda Southern Province Nyarusiza Blend may not be readily available in all locations. Depending on your location, it might be challenging to access this particular blend, limiting your ability to enjoy its unique flavors.
  • Subjective Taste Preferences: As with any coffee, personal taste preferences may vary. While this blend offers a distinct flavor profile loved by many, it may not align perfectly with every individual's preferences.
  • Price: Specialty coffee often comes at a higher price point compared to regular coffee blends. The Driftaway Coffee Rwanda Southern Province Nyarusiza Blend may be priced higher than some other coffee options, which could be a consideration for those on a tight budget.

Buying the Product

  1. Visit the Driftaway Coffee website: Go to the official website of Driftaway Coffee.
  2. Select the desired product: Navigate to the coffee selection or search specifically for the Rwanda Southern Province Nyarusiza Blend.
  3. Choose the quantity: Indicate the desired quantity or size of the coffee package you wish to purchase.
  4. Add to cart: Click on the "Add to Cart" or similar button to add the selected product to your shopping cart.
  5. Review your order: Proceed to the shopping cart or checkout page to review your order details, including the quantity and total price.
  6. Provide shipping information: Enter your shipping address and any other required information for delivery.
  7. Select shipping method: Choose the shipping method that suits your preferences and location. Consider any additional fees or delivery options available.
  8. Complete the purchase: Proceed to the payment section, where you can choose your preferred payment method and provide the necessary details to finalize the purchase.
  9. Place the order: Confirm the purchase by clicking on the "Place Order" or similar button. This step may require accepting the terms and conditions of the website.
  10. Order confirmation: After placing the order, you should receive an order confirmation email or notification with details of your purchase.
  11. Wait for delivery: Sit back and wait for the Rwanda Southern Province Nyarusiza Blend to be delivered to your specified address, as per the estimated shipping time frame provided by Driftaway Coffee.

Check out our full review on Driftaway Coffee!

Results

The Rwanda Southern Province Nyarusiza Blend from Driftaway Coffee comes in a beautifully designed package that reflects the care and attention given to its contents. The bag is sealed to preserve the freshness of the beans, ensuring that every cup is a delightful experience.

When brewed, this blend offers a dynamic and captivating flavor profile. It combines the vibrant notes of florals and fruit, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. The taste is well-rounded and satisfying, with a complexity that keeps me coming back for more.The aroma that fills the room is simply enchanting. The delightful fragrance of floral and fruit notes permeates the air, heightening the anticipation for that first sip. As I explore the nuances of this blend, I discover delightful undertones that add depth and character to the overall flavor experience. These undertones can range from subtle sweetness to gentle spice or even earthy undertones, offering a multi-dimensional and enjoyable cup of coffee.

The body of the Rwanda Southern Province Nyarusiza Blend is medium to full, providing a satisfying mouthfeel. It has a smooth and velvety texture that glides across the palate, enhancing the overall sensory experience.The acidity of this blend is well-balanced, adding brightness and liveliness to the cup without overpowering the other flavors. It contributes to the complexity and vibrancy of the coffee, making each sip a delightful journey of taste. As I reach the finish of each cup, I am met with a lingering and pleasing aftertaste. The flavors gently fade away, leaving me with a sense of satisfaction and a desire for another sip.

The Rwanda Southern Province Nyarusiza Blend from Driftaway Coffee is distinguished by its rich floral aromas and vibrant berry flavors. These elements combine to create a dynamic and well-structured fruity profile. What sets this blend apart is its distinctive heavier body, which lends a syrupy texture that further enhances its unique character. The result is a truly exceptional coffee that stands out among other offerings in this flavor profile.

I would say that the Driftaway Coffee Rwanda Southern Province Nyarusiza Blend had a cupping score of 86.75/100. In accordance with the Total Score Quality Classification, it would be considered excellent, also known as a specialty coffee.

Cupping Scores

Published by the Specialty Coffee Association of America. The Cupping Form allows you to note the following coffee flavor qualities: Fragrance/Aroma, Flavor, Aftertaste, Acidity, Body, Balance, Uniformity, Clean Cup, Sweetness, Defects, and Overall. These are evaluated on a 16-point scale indicating quality levels in quarter-point increments ranging from 6 to 9. To score your coffee, go through each specific flavor attribute and mark the points based on your own personal appraisal. 

Quality Scale

  • Good: 6-6:75
  • Very good: 7 - 7.75
  • Excellent: 8 - 8.75
  • Outstanding: 9 - 9.75

The Final Score is calculated by adding the individual scores for each of the key criteria in the "Total Score" box. Defects are then subtracted from the “Total Score” to arrive at a “Final Score.” The Scoring Key below has shown to be an effective technique to represent the range of coffee quality for the Final Score.

Total Score Quality Classification

  • Outstanding: 90-100
  • Excellent: 85-89.99
  • Very Good: 80-84.99
  • Good: <80

(Outstanding, excellent, and very good are considered Specialty coffee, while anything below that is not.)

Bottom Line

In conclusion, the Driftaway Coffee Rwanda Southern Province Nyarusiza Blend review has taken us on a delightful journey of coffee exploration. From the rich history and farming practices of the region to the enticing aroma and flavor of the coffee itself, this blend offers a truly unique experience. With its perfect balance of floral and fruity notes, bold body, and well-rounded acidity, it's no wonder that this coffee has become a fan favorite. So, sit back, sip on a cup of this delicious brew, and enjoy the journey. 

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About the Author

Product Tester & Writer

Bryan Huynh

Product Tester & Writer

Bryan Huynh is a determined Product Tester & Writer. Being a coffee addict, it is only right that he mainly tests and reviews different coffee from around the world and coffee subscription services.

Bryan Huynh is a determined Product Tester & Writer. Being a coffee addict, it is only right that he mainly tests and reviews different coffee from around the world and coffee subscription services.