I often play this game in my head when stuck in mindless, brain-numbing moments like moving traffic jams or in the middle of roast batches. To me, a favourite bean needs to demonstrate perfect standalone balance. Some beans can exhibit intense character and whilst this is great to appreciate, I tend to believe overall balance is a more challenging pursuit - it needs to have a great start, mid and finish. When that occurs, it is a memorable experience. Long ago, used to be Harrar DP Longberry as it was so difficult to roast well, but when it was on the money there was nothing else like it in terms of complexity straight or with milk. Alas, Harrar's arriving in Oz over the last few years have been a little lacking by comparison. My palate then craved a clean, balanced cup with nice acidity and some wild grown PNG's were the bean of the year, clearly able to blow away any other bean put up against them (and I mean beat anything). What were they......where did they come from.......a frustrating mystery never solved. The fruity stage has been with me for a few years and just like the tide it ebbs up and down. Sidamo's from Oromia, Guji and other when they are roasted perfectly have a huge number of layered flavors and character - again, equally useful straight or with milk. Last year's El Salvador San Emlio semi-washed was a standout in 2010. A journey thru Sumatra and working through a good dozen top beans I found the CIRISI-RISI project able to stand head and shoulders above anything else. Having given Colombians a bit of a wide berth over the last few years, yesterday to my utter surprise, the highly regarded Equidad FAIRTRADE/Organic from last year's crop just blew me away for PERFECT BALANCE. A 16 month old green bean roasted 9/10/11. With more than 120 different beans passing through our factory in the last few years, if faced with 1 choice to take on a deserted tropical island, a.k.a. Tom Hanks @ Castaway..........the winner would be Wild Grown PNG - no name (yes, it's still frustrating).
