| Location: |
Nyamasheke
|
| Producer: |
Gitwe Washing Station
|
| Varietal: | Red Bourbon |
| Process: | Natural |
| Altitude: |
1600 - 1950
|
| Production/Harvest Date: | 2025 |
| Cup Score: | 86.25 |
| Cup Profile: | Rock Melon, Rambutan, Stewed Apples, Caramel |
Gitwe is a specialty coffee produced by smallholder farmers in Western Rwanda, delivered to the Gitwe Washing Station, which is commonly operated and exported by Rwanda Trading Company (RTC). The station is located in Nyamasheke District, a highland area influenced by the nearby Lake Kivu corridor, where cool temperatures, consistent rainfall, and fertile soils create favourable conditions for slow cherry development and balanced flavour expression. Coffee production around Gitwe is highly smallholder-based, with farmers cultivating small plots on steep hillsides, often under mixed shade and traditional farming systems. RTC works closely with these farmers through training programs, cherry quality incentives, and structured delivery systems to encourage selective picking and consistent ripeness. This approach helps maintain reliability and traceability at the washing-station level while supporting long-term farmer relationships.
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