Coffee Profile – Khuan Lao Village, Thailand

Swell Roastery Exclusive

Origin

• Country: Thailand

• Region: Chiang Rai

• Village: Khuan Lao

• Altitude: Up to 1,400 meters above sea level

• Environment: Tropical forests and mountainous highlands – an ideal terroir for specialty coffee cultivation.

Varietal

• Genetic Background:

  • Hybrid of SL28 × Caturra × Hybrid de Timor

  • Classified within the Caturra family (related to Colombia and Castillo varieties).

• Key Attributes:

  • High cup quality enhancement from SL28 lineage.

  • Strong resistance to coffee leaf rust.

  • Developed under the royal initiatives aimed at replacing opium cultivation among Northern Thailand’s mountain tribes.

Processing Method

• Fermentation:

  • Anaerobic fermentation in sealed bags immersed in water to regulate temperature and prevent unwanted microbial activity.

• Drying:

  • Initial surface drying for three days on raised beds.

  • Final drying in a sealed, dehumidified chamber using a unique "low temperature and humidity drying" innovation.

• Innovation:

  • A pioneering Thai technique developed collaboratively with local roasters and researchers.

  • Designed to maintain bean quality despite high humidity and heavy rains during the harvest season.

Crop Information

• Breed: Typica, Bourbon

• Altitude: 1,400 meters above sea level

• Processing: Anaerobic fermentation and low-temperature dehumidified drying

Tasting Notes

• Flavor Profile:

  • Tropical fruits

  • Grapes

  • Brown sugar sweetness

• Cup Character:

  • Bright, complex acidity balanced with a silky body and a juicy finish.

Sustainability and Cultural Impact

• Part of broader efforts to promote sustainable agriculture in Thailand’s northern highlands.

• Supports local farmers by providing an alternative to illicit crop production.

• Contributes to Thailand’s emerging reputation as a specialty coffee origin on the global stage.