Vietnam Son La

The Vietnam Washed Arabica originates from the picturesque region of Son La, a burgeoning coffee-growing area in Vietnam. Nestled in the mountainous terrain atbaltitudes ranging from 600 to 1050 meters above sea level, Son La provides the ideal conditions for cultivating high quality Arabica coffee.
The beans undergo a fully washed process, which involves several steps to ensure the highest quality. Selective picking of cherries ensures that only the ripest and best quality cherries are harvested. After picking, the cherries are processed using a fully washed method, which involves removing the cherry's pulp, fermenting the beans to eliminate the mucilage, and finally washing them thoroughly. This process enhances the coffee's clarity and brightness, resulting in a clean and well-balanced cup.
Coffee cultivation in Vietnam dates back to the 1800s, with significant expansion occurring in the early 1900s. Son La's smallholder farms have been cultivating coffee traditionally for generations, preserving time-honoured practices while embracing modern techniques. The farms predominantly utilise sun drying on patios to process the cherries, a method that naturally enhances the beans' flavours through gradual moisture reduction.
The cultivation and processing of this coffee is deeply intertwined with environmental and social sustainability initiatives. The region benefits from the LDC RSP
(Louis Dreyfus Company Responsible Sourcing Program) Advanced program, which is active in Son La. This program emphasises complete traceability from the
farmer group through the supply chain, ensuring that each batch of coffee can be traced back to its origin. It also focuses on establishing a carbon baseline and
aligning with the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).
Additionally, the program promotes social and community development. By engaging with local farmers and communities, LDC fosters sustainable agricultural practices and supports the well-being of coffee growers