March 2025: Podium Platinum. Kafiex Roasters
Coffee: Reserve Series Pink Bourbon
Varietal: Pink Bourbon
Country: Colombia
Region: Quindio
Process: Honey + Wine Yeast & Lychee Fermentation
Producer: Jairo Arcila
Elevation: 1,500 MASL
Tasting notes: Cacao nibs, lime, lychee, and molasses
The Coffee:
Sourced from Finca Santa Mónica in Armenia, Quindío, Colombia, this experimental micro-lot is a testament to the innovative craftsmanship of Jairo Arcila. As a third-generation coffee producer, Jairo continuously pushes the boundaries of specialty coffee fermentation, creating unique and unforgettable flavor profiles.
This 100% Pink Bourbon lot underwent a 72-hour dry anaerobic fermentation with the pulp intact. During this stage, wine yeast and lychee were introduced, enhancing the coffee’s complexity and aromatics. After fermentation, the cherries were pulped and carefully dried on raised beds to achieve the ideal moisture content, resulting in a cup that is both vibrant and deeply layered.
Pink Bourbon is a rare and mysterious varietal, still under research to determine its exact origins. It is believed to be a mutation that first appeared at 2,100 MASL in San Adolfo, Huila. This exclusive nano-lot showcases the beauty of controlled fermentation, terroir, and precise processing.
The Roaster:
Kafiex Roasters is built on the foundation of curiosity and excellence, values that have earned us top placements in the U.S. Coffee Roasting Championship—4th place nationally in both 2024 and 2025. These achievements reflect our meticulous approach to roasting, and blending with sensory expertise to create coffees that stand out on the competition stage and in the cup.
Beyond competition, head roaster and co-founder Matthew Selivanow is passionate about fostering transparency in coffee. From direct trade relationships with producers to educating baristas and coffee lovers, Matthew's goal is always to bridge the gap between farm and final sip. He believe that great coffee is not just about precision roasting—it’s about storytelling, connection, and honoring the hard work behind every bean.
For March's Podium feature Matthew has carefully selected coffees that represent Kafiex’s commitment to sourcing and roasting excellence—coffees that not only showcase his philosophy but also invite you to experience the depth of flavor that precision and passion can achieve.