Nestled in the highlands of Chiang Mai, Thailand, Law Wu is a small but remarkable village where coffee cultivation has slowly transformed the lives of its people. As a remote village with around 30 families, Law Wu may seem unassuming at first, but the dedication of its 9 coffee-growing members is nothing short of extraordinary. We are proud to continue our partnership with this community and excited to introduce their latest standout release: Law Wu Natural Anaerobic.
The Story Behind Law Wu Village
The villagers of Law Wu belong to the Lahu tribe, an indigenous group originally hailing from China and mainland Southeast Asia. The village’s location at 1,700 meters above sea level offers an ideal environment for coffee cultivation. The cool climate, consistent shade, and unique terrain of the region create the perfect conditions for growing exceptional coffee. Although coffee has only been grown in this area for about 15 years, the quality and flavor of the beans have steadily improved, attracting the attention of those looking for standout microlots.
Our partnership with Law Wu began in 2017, and in that time we’ve witnessed tremendous growth. In the first season of working together, we collaborated with four dedicated farmers. After seeing the consistency and quality of our work, the village expanded to include five more members. Today, the village’s nine coffee farmers represent a growing community of people committed to cultivating top-quality coffee beans.
Much of the coffee from Law Wu is shade-grown, allowing the cherries to mature more slowly and develop a fuller, more complex flavor. Given the higher elevation and cooler climate, this unique geography enables the beans to retain their distinct characteristics, leading to a richer, more layered profile.
The Anaerobic Natural Process
The Law Wu Natural Anaerobic coffee is special not just because of the village it comes from but also because of the unique anaerobic fermentation process it undergoes. This method enhances the flavor profile of the coffee, bringing out bold and complex notes that would otherwise remain muted.
The anaerobic process begins with selecting only the ripest cherries. Ripe cherries are crucial for this fermentation technique as they offer the highest sugar content and allow for maximum microbial activity during fermentation. After hand-selecting the cherries, they are placed into airtight barrels equipped with one-way valves on the lids.
Once inside the barrel, the fermentation begins. As pressure builds, oxygen is pushed out, creating a completely anaerobic (oxygen-free) environment. This is critical in preventing mold growth and allowing for longer fermentation periods. In the case of the Law Wu Natural Anaerobic, the cherries were fermented for an impressive 72 hours, giving the beans ample time to develop a range of unique and intricate flavors.
After fermentation, the cherries are removed from the barrels and dried naturally, similar to a traditional natural process. This combination of natural drying and anaerobic fermentation results in a coffee that is truly one-of-a-kind.
The Flavor Profile of Law Wu Natural Anaerobic
The Law Wu Natural Anaerobic presents a captivating flavor profile that offers a dynamic and complex tasting experience. The aroma brings forward a vibrant sweetness reminiscent of fruit candy, inviting you into the cup. The body is smooth and silky, with low acidity that enhances its drinkability while allowing the nuanced flavors to shine.
On the palate, you’ll find bright, tart cranberry notes paired with the warm, spiced complexity of ponche, adding depth and richness. Subtle hints of rooibos provide a soft, herbal undertone that balances the more prominent flavors. As you sip, you’ll notice a comforting warmth akin to a hot toddy, adding a layer of coziness to the cup. The experience is rounded out by a crisp, clean finish that evokes the refined acidity of white wine, leaving a refreshing aftertaste. Together, these flavors create a harmonious balance, making the Law Wu Natural Anaerobic a unique and memorable coffee.
The fermentation process truly shines through in this coffee, as each sip uncovers layers of complexity, making it a standout choice for coffee connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.
The Future of Law Wu Village Coffee
While the Law Wu Natural Anaerobic is an exceptional example of what this village can produce, it’s also a testament to the potential of the farmers and the land. The high sugar content (with a 25 brix reading) of the cherries grown here, combined with the unique fermentation process, suggests that Law Wu is capable of consistently producing high-quality microlots with distinctive flavor profiles.
As our relationship with Law Wu continues to grow, we are committed to supporting the village in developing new techniques, expanding their operations, and improving their coffee offerings. The coffee farmers of Law Wu may not have milling machines or processing facilities of their own, but their dedication to excellence ensures that each harvest is something special.
By investing in sustainable, direct trade relationships like this one, we are able to bring these extraordinary coffees to the world while supporting the growth and development of communities like Law Wu.
The Law Wu Natural Anaerobic is more than just a coffee—it’s a reflection of the people, place, and process behind it. From the cool, high-altitude fields of Law Wu Village to the careful anaerobic fermentation that enhances every sip, this coffee tells a story of dedication, tradition, and innovation. As we release this unique microlot on Tuesday, we invite you to experience it for yourself and join us in celebrating the incredible work of the farmers of Law Wu.
With limited quantities available, now is your chance to savor a cup of this truly remarkable coffee. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy the bold flavors and rich history of Law Wu Natural Anaerobic.