Cafe Ticuna SL-28

Farm: Cafe Ticuna

Variety: 100% SL-28

Region: Garzón, Huila, Colombia

Altitude: 1,900-2,000 Meters Above Sea Level

Process: Washed

Harvest: September 2025

Notes: Wild Berries, Peach & Apple.

SL-28 has been a variety favored by both industry professionals and coffee lovers alike. This variety is typically shining through from a Kenyan harvest. We are fortunate enough to taste this SL-28 on its own and with great clarity from Colombia! The acidity is poignant with a dark berry tart, peaches and lactic sweetness. The structure is firm with a slick feel of tropical fruits and subtle florals.

Café Ticuna is a coffee project in southern Huila, Colombia, founded and co-owned by our friends and importing partners: José Jadir Losada and Kyle Bellinger. José and Kyle’s ambitious labor of love currently consists of three coffee farms in the municipality of Garzón, and El Mirador in the municipality of Suaza.

“SL” is in reference to single tree selections made by Scott Agricultural Laboratories in 1935-1939. SL28 is of the Bourbon genetic group, and was selected for its drought resistance as well as its extremely high cup quality. SL28 is one of the most well-known and well-regarded varieties in Africa. It has consequently spread from Kenya to other parts of Africa as well as Central and South America. SL28 is a non-hybrid variety, and very susceptible to disease.

Hand-picked at peak ripeness. Floated to further remove defects. De-pulped. Dry-fermented in parchment for 24 hours. Washed. Dried on shaded raised beds until moisture content reaches ~10.5%. This was so well done by José and the crew over at Ticuna, it's a rare treat to see SL-28 done in such transparent manner.