Coffee Plants & Fruit
With over a hundred different coffee species across the world, there is an abundance of choice. The most popular species used in the production of coffee are Arabica and Robusta. Arabica has a complex acidity, which often gives a sweeter blend with hints of fruit, nuts and floral notes. In contrast, Robusta has much harsher characteristics which produces a more acquired taste of bitterness.
The production of our coffee starts with the plants as this is where the flavours first develop. These plants can grow up to six metres tall depending on the species and the smell of their flowers resembles that of jasmine and orange. When the petals fall, small green fruits appear and these contain two grains which adhere to each other. When the fruits acquire a purple-red hue, they are ready for harvest. Once picked, the fruits are scattered and exposed to the sun, turning and raking them regularly. After 4 weeks, the dried grains can be separated from the remains of the pulp. They are then soaked in water and fermented. After rinsing, they are dried in the sun or in special driers and finally, the scales are removed.
Roasting
At the burning stage, the beans become brown and obtain their characteristic taste and aroma. When roasting the beans, many changes take place. These include protein degradation, water evaporation and caramelisation. In the final stage of burning, at a temperature of about 200-220°C, various volatile substances are released, creating a unique aroma of coffee. To avoid burning completely, the grains must be quickly cooled.
Manufacture
Our production facility is among the largest and most modern coffee production plants in the EU. In order to keep up the pace with the market leaders, the company continuously invests in new technologies. It is thanks to these advancements that the company can boast one of the largest and most efficient production capacities in the industry.
The plant’s equipment includes state-of-the-art, automated machinery for both roasting and packing. We have coffee burners at our disposal that meet the highest standards and work in tandem with grinders and packing machines. These allow the final product to be packed in neutral gases that maintain the coffee’s aroma and extend its shelf life. The plant has been producing coffee for over 20 years and conforms to the requirements of the IFS (International Food Standard) and HACCP in accordance with European Union and environment protection regulation.
Distribution
From our modern distribution facility in Kent, we carry huge stock of all our coffee blends and are able to fulfil any order no matter how big or small. If you place an order in the UK before 4pm we will ship it the very same day. We offer free delivery to all UK addresses as well as a next day service for a small cost. We also ship to Europe and worldwide using an array of recognised couriers.
