Origin Story
Indian Plantation AA is a washed-processed (wet-processed) Arabica coffee from the renowned Ley Estate in India's coffee-growing regions, cultivated at elevations between 700-1,200 meters above sea level. The "Plantation" designation refers to the washed processing method, while "AA" indicates the premium bean grade. This coffee is grown in India's unique shade-based multi-crop system, where coffee trees thrive under pepper vines, cardamom plants, and native trees, creating a distinctive terroir shaped by India's monsoon climate. The washed processing creates a cleaner, more refined cup compared to India's natural "Cherry" grades, highlighting the cocoa, nutty, and brown spice characteristics that define Indian Arabica. The Ley Estate has been producing exceptional coffee for generations, maintaining traditional shade-grown methods while investing in quality and sustainability. This coffee offers a unique and diverse flavor profile that's sure to satisfy any coffee lover.
Producer Details
Estate: Ley Estate
Region: Karnataka/Kerala, India
Altitude: 700-1,200 MASL
Process: Washed (Plantation grade)
Grade: AA (premium bean size)
Varietals: Kent, S795, Cauvery
Cultivation: Shade-grown under pepper, cardamom, and native trees
Harvest Season: November - February
Sustainability & Certifications
✓ Estate-Grown: Single estate with full control over quality and sustainability practices
✓ Shade-Grown: Multi-layered canopy with pepper, cardamom, and native trees
✓ Organic Practices: Natural composting and minimal intervention farming
✓ Direct Trade Partnership: Long-term relationship with Ley Estate ensuring fair pricing
✓ Biodiversity Protection: Multi-crop system supports diverse ecosystems
✓ Fair Wages: Estate provides stable employment and benefits to workers
✓ Water Management: Responsible water use in washing process
✓ Traditional Methods: Preserving India's coffee heritage and cultivation traditions
Tasting Profile
Aroma: Cocoa, nutty, brown spice
Flavor Notes: Cocoa, roasted nuts, brown spices, subtle sweetness
Acidity: Low and balanced, very approachable
Body: Medium to full with smooth mouthfeel
Sweetness: Subtle natural sweetness
Finish: Clean and smooth with lingering cocoa notes
Brewing Recommendations: Versatile - excellent as filter, French press, or espresso
Why Indian Plantation AA is Special
Indian Plantation AA represents the refined side of Indian coffee. The washed processing creates a cleaner cup than natural "Cherry" grades, while the AA grading ensures premium bean size and quality. The unique multi-crop shade system (coffee grown alongside pepper, cardamom, and fruit trees) creates a terroir that's distinctly Indian. This coffee offers a unique and diverse flavor profile that showcases the richness and complexity of Indian specialty coffee, perfect for those who appreciate smooth, approachable coffees with subtle complexity.
Traceability
This coffee is fully traceable to Ley Estate in India's coffee-growing regions. We maintain detailed records including lot numbers, harvest dates, and processing notes. Each lot is cupped and scored at our Dubai facility by founder Mohamed Hamdou, and this coffee is featured in our cupping sessions to demonstrate the unique characteristics of Indian washed-processed Arabica.
At 1718 Coffee, we're committed to knowing the people behind every bean we source. Questions about this Indian Plantation AA's journey from Ley Estate to your cup? We're here to share the story.
