Since first visiting the Rotutu community in 2017, Karst has recognised the exceptional potential of East Timorese coffee, particularly from the Letefoho sub-district. Building on that early promise, Karst formed a partnership with local farmers aimed at raising coffee quality, expanding access to international markets, and improving grower income. This has been supported through a cherry-purchasing model that has consistently delivered prices averaging around 30% above local commercial rates.

During the 2025 harvest, Rotutu farmers again opted to sell ripe cherries rather than process their coffee independently. Karst increased its purchase price to $0.85 per kilogram, well above the local commercial range of $0.50 to $0.60 per kilogram. The higher price rewarded selective picking and encouraged farmers to harvest only the ripest cherries, helping them maximise the value of their crop. With improved yields reported across the membership, 2025 proved to be a strong and rewarding season.

The Rotutu community continues to work together to ensure that only the ripest cherries are selected for processing, laying the foundation for their outstanding fully washed coffee. Their dedication is driven in part by the pride of seeing their coffee appreciated by roasters and drinkers across the UK and European markets. Over seven years of partnership, the group has grown in size and in experience, with a shared recognition that exceptional coffee begins with careful picking at the tree.

Alongside this, Karst continues to encourage effective rehabilitation and farm maintenance practices so that each member can benefit from improved quality, stronger production, and reliable returns. This support is matched by a guaranteed price structure designed to provide consistency and confidence into the future.

As Karst’s flagship coffee, this lot expresses the values at the heart of the partnership: collaboration, trust, quality, and flavour. In the cup, it delivers a lively acidity, excellent balance, and a character that stands out.

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