Inde - Karnataka - Sangameshwar - Gungegiri Estate - SLN9 - Anaerobic

Originating from Gungegiri Estate, one of the four farms of Sangameshwar Coffee Estates managed by Hamsini Appadurai, this lot of SLN9 showcases the expertise developed within the family farms of Karnataka. The harvest is carried out with high quality standards: each tree is picked in three successive passes to select only perfectly ripe cherries. Manually harvested, the cherries are then pulped, fermented, washed twice, and slowly sun-dried on African raised beds. This lot benefits from an anaerobic fermentation process, allowing precise control of the fermentation and contributing to the development of its aromatic profile.

Founded in 1890 by British brothers W.L. Crawford and C.S. Crawford, Gungegiri Estate is one of four farms within Sangameshwar Coffee Estates. Its name originates from the numerous springs and streams that traverse its hills throughout the year. Serving as true natural water reservoirs, they play an essential role during the dry season and contribute to the identity of this historic farm in Karnataka.

Spanning nearly 200 hectares between 1,200 and 1,450 meters of altitude, Gungegiri benefits from a privileged environment in the heart of the Western Ghats. The farm receives approximately 2,000 mm of rainfall annually, creating favorable conditions for cultivating Arabicas and Robustas under significant shade cover from indigenous trees such as Atti (fig trees), Basari (grey fig or Java fig), and Neeruli (Tree Onion).

Like all farms of Sangameshwar Coffee Estates managed by Hamsini Appadurai, Gungegiri is committed to preserving the natural balances that characterize the Western Ghats. The richness of its environment is reflected in remarkable biodiversity, where numerous species of birds and wild animals coexist. The farm is particularly known for hosting significant populations of peacocks and spotted deer.

Beyond its agronomic interest, Gungegiri also possesses a strong heritage dimension. One of its hills is home to an ancient temple dedicated to Shiva, a testament to the cultural history of this region of Karnataka.

The combination of altitude, abundant water, natural shade, and local biodiversity helps shape the identity of the coffees produced at Gungegiri. These conditions particularly favor the development of complex aromatic profiles and have contributed to the reputation of the farm's natural coffees among roasters worldwide.

Hamsini Appadurai currently heads Sangameshwar Coffee Estates, a group comprising four farms located in the Western Ghats of Karnataka. As President of the Specialty Coffee Association of India and a Q Processing Professional certified in Arabica and Robusta, she has contributed for over fifteen years to the development of Indian specialty coffee while supporting the evolution of agricultural practices within the family plantations.

Founded in the 19th century and acquired by the Vaidyanathan family in the early 20th century, the farms of Sangameshwar Coffee Estates now span over 800 hectares between 950 and 1,650 meters of altitude. For several generations, the family has developed coffee cultivation closely linked to the exceptional environment of the Western Ghats, a region renowned for its Biodiversity and ideal production conditions.

Driven by Hamsini, the pursuit of quality is accompanied by a particular focus on the sustainability of production systems. Her work aims to reconcile continuous improvement of coffees, preservation of natural resources, and valorization of Indian Terroir. This vision is now extended through the involvement of her daughter, Shriya Appadurai, who is already participating in the development of the plantations and gradually supporting the Intergenerational Knowledge Transfer of family expertise.

The four farms produce both Arabica and Robusta coffees, as well as other crops such as pepper, areca nuts, and citrus fruits. Quality relies on rigorous monitoring of the Plots, manual harvesting carried out in several passes, and constant work on agricultural and post-harvest practices.

Through Sangameshwar Coffee Estates, Hamsini Appadurai champions a coffee vision founded on transmission, innovation, and respect for the environment, thereby contributing to the international reputation of Indian specialty coffees.