SHU FROM YUNNAN is proud to have launched the "Yunnan Flavor Flows" series in Barcelona, an exciting journey that began with our participation at Palo Market Fest, continued with collaborations with four renowned local cafés, and culminated in a series of cupping sessions. This initiative was designed to introduce the complex and diverse flavors of Yunnan coffee to coffee lovers in Spain, while also showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Yunnan.
The History of Yunnan Coffee
Yunnan’s coffee history traces back to 1892, when a French missionary successfully planted the first coffee seeds in the province’s Binchuan County. Over the years, Yunnan’s coffee industry has blossomed into one of China’s most prominent coffee regions, known for its high-quality beans, diverse processing methods, and the passionate farmers who cultivate them. Today, Yunnan is recognized as a unique coffee-growing region that produces beans with remarkable flavors shaped by its distinct climate and soil.
A Landmark Moment for Yunnan Coffee in Spain
The "Yunnan Flavor Flows" series marked the first collective appearance of Yunnan coffee in the Spanish market. At the heart of this pop-up initiative, we presented ten different coffee beans from Yunnan, each highlighting various processing techniques such as washed, honey, and natural methods. This diverse selection allowed participants to experience the full range of Yunnan’s coffee offerings, with each cup telling a unique story of the land and the people behind it.
Beyond the Traditional: Unique Varieties of Yunnan Coffee
At this special event, visitors had the chance to taste more than just the familiar Catimor variety that Yunnan is traditionally known for. We introduced other notable Yunnan-grown varieties, such as Purple Leaf Caturra, Typica, and Geisha. Among these, the Yunnan Geisha made its debut in the Spanish market and quickly became the crowd favorite. Known for its bright acidity, floral aroma, and complex flavor profile, this Geisha brought something extraordinary to the cupping table.
Two Years of Deep Engagement in Barcelona and Spain
After two years of deep engagement in the Spanish market, particularly in Barcelona, we have gained valuable insights into the local coffee scene and the preferences of Spanish coffee enthusiasts. Our journey has been one of continuous learning and adaptation, and we are grateful for the support from local coffee professionals, roasters, and aficionados. This event further solidified our commitment to bringing the finest Yunnan coffee to Europe.
The Progress of Yunnan Specialty Coffee
One of the key highlights of the event was the impressive progress of Yunnan specialty coffee. The Catimor variety, once criticized for its harsh and lingering aftertaste, has undergone significant advancements in processing techniques. Through years of dedicated work by local farmers and producers, the Catimor beans showcased at this event were processed to such a high standard that it was nearly impossible to detect their origin. This marks a significant step forward for Yunnan’s specialty coffee scene, and we are excited to continue this progress as we work towards further improving the quality of Yunnan coffee.
A Celebration of Yunnan’s Coffee and Culture
The "Yunnan Flavor Flows" series was not only a celebration of coffee but also a celebration of the culture, people, and traditions of Yunnan. From the rich history of coffee cultivation in the region to the intricate processing methods that define its flavors, this event highlighted the intersection of tradition and innovation. By sharing these stories and flavors, we aim to bridge cultures and introduce the world to the unique offerings of Yunnan.
We are incredibly grateful to our partners, the participating cafés, and all the coffee lovers who joined us for this memorable event. "Yunnan Flavor Flows" is just the beginning, and we look forward to continuing to share the richness of Yunnan coffee with the world, one cup at a time.
