Java – Natural – SCA 86.25

About This Coffee

The Java Natural Process showcases a traditional Indonesian varietal thriving in Colombian terroir, amplified by meticulous natural processing. This combination produces a vibrant, fruit-forward cup that balances exotic vibrancy with the chocolate richness Java is known for.

SCA-certified cuppers have scored this coffee at 86.25 points, placing it among the highest-scoring coffees in our lineup. It demonstrates that exceptional coffee comes in many expressions, each with its own compelling character.

Tasting Profile

Natural processing has transformed this Java into an exuberant, fruit-forward experience while preserving the varietal’s characteristic chocolate depth, wrapped in a silky body.

Acidity: Fruity and vibrant, with guava and yellow-fruit notes
Body: Silky and smooth, with a refined mouthfeel
Sweetness: Intense and layered, featuring brown sugar and caramel
Finish: Long and evolving, with a lingering yellow-fruit finish

Tasting Notes: Fruity fragrance, tropical-fruit chocolate aroma, sweet, guava, brown sugar, yellow fruits

The Natural Process

Natural processing intensifies the Java varietal’s inherent characteristics while adding layers of fruit complexity. The extended sun-drying period allows the coffee cherry’s natural sugars to ferment within the bean, creating:

• Explosive fruit-forward characteristics
• Enhanced body and mouthfeel
• Complex sweetness profiles
• Vibrant, memorable flavors

This processing method is particularly effective with Java, a varietal known for its robust structure and chocolate notes. The natural process adds tropical fruit vibrancy without sacrificing the varietal’s foundational character.

Origin & Terroir

Region: El Águila, Valle del Cauca, Colombia
Farm: Finca Casa Azul, vereda Llanogrande
Varietal: Java
Altitude: 1820 – 1870 meters above sea level
Soil: Volcanic, mineral-rich

The Java Varietal

Java is a traditional coffee varietal originating from the Indonesian island of the same name. Introduced to Indonesia by Dutch colonists in the 17th century, Java became one of the world’s most important coffee varietals during the colonial era.

The varietal is characterized by:

• Full body and substantial mouthfeel
• Chocolate and cocoa flavor notes
• Low to moderate acidity
• Excellent cup quality when grown at altitude

Colombian-grown Java has proven particularly successful, combining the varietal’s robust character with Colombia’s ideal growing conditions and volcanic soil. Natural processing further elevates the varietal’s potential, adding fruit complexity to its chocolate foundation.

SCA Score: 86.25

This coffee has been evaluated by Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) certified cuppers and scored 86.25 points out of 100, placing it in the exceptional specialty-grade category (85-89.99 points). This score reflects the coffee’s sweetness, fruit complexity and silky balance.

Brewing Recommendations

Java Natural’s fruit-forward profile is versatile across brewing methods, from immersion to pour over.

Recommended Methods:

French Press – Maximizes body and chocolate notes
Pour Over (Kalita, V60) – Balances fruit and chocolate
Moka Pot – Intensifies richness and body
Cold Brew – Emphasizes sweetness and tropical fruit

Pro Tip: This coffee shines both hot and cold. Try it as cold brew to experience the tropical fruit notes in their most vibrant expression.

Why Don Gildo

• Specialty grade: 86.25 points on the SCA scale
• Java varietal, natural process
• Roasted at origin in Colombia and shipped from Miami

Ideal For

Adventurous coffee lovers | Those who prefer fruit-forward profiles | French press and immersion brewing fans | Cold brew aficionados | Anyone seeking chocolate and fruit complexity | Espresso and milk-based drink applications | Daily drinkers who want specialty quality with distinctive character