Sipi Tangwen

Sipi Tangwen is a specialty Arabica coffee produced by smallholder farmers in the Tangwen village, located in the Sipi region of Mount Elgon, eastern Uganda. The coffee is grown at altitudes ranging from 1,900 to 2,050 metres above sea level, benefiting from rich volcanic soils and a favourable climate. The beans are processed using various methods, including natural, honey, and anaerobic fermentation techniques. This lot underwent natural processing with 7-day extended fermentation in passion fruit pulp. Tasting notes include tangerine, passionfruit, raspberry, and grape, with a silky mouthfeel and vibrant acidity. The coffee is graded as UGA CA NAT SPL SD, indicating high quality.

The Tangwen village is situated on the slopes of Mount Elgon, an extinct volcano on the border between Uganda and Kenya. The region is known for its fertile volcanic soils, high altitudes, and favourable climate, creating ideal conditions for coffee cultivation. The Sipi region, encompassing Tangwen, is one of Uganda's oldest Arabica coffee-growing areas, with coffee farming dating back to the 1920s. Smallholder farmers in this area typically cultivate coffee on small plots, often intercropped with other crops. The community is supported by the Zukuka Bora Coffee Company, which provides training, resources, and a premium for high-quality coffee production.

Coffee was introduced to Uganda in the early 20th century, with Arabica coffee first planted in the Sipi region around 1920. The industry grew steadily, and by the 1960s, Uganda was a significant coffee producer in Africa. However, after independence in 1962, the quality of coffee declined due to various factors, including lack of investment and infrastructure. In recent years, there has been a resurgence in specialty coffee production, driven by smallholder farmers adopting quality-focused practices and receiving support from organisations like Zukuka Bora. Today, Uganda is recognised for producing high-quality Arabica coffee, particularly from regions like Sipi.