Honduras: 18 Rabbit Black, Marcala

Marcala, Honduras is known for coffees that can carry sweetness and structure, and this organic lot from 18 Rabbit is built around a processing style designed to amplify that character. Honey process sits between washed and natural, defined by how much sticky mucilage remains on the bean during drying. The more mucilage left in place, the more sweetness can develop, and the category is often described in color bands that reflect mucilage level and drying time. This coffee is produced as a black honey, achieved by fermenting the cherries for up to 24 hours before depulping and drying on raised beds, a heavier fermentation window that can deepen sweetness and create a rounder, more mellow profile. 18 Rabbit is female owned and earned a Honduras Cup of Excellence win in 2014, with coffees that have commanded premium auction prices. The operation spans 13 farms separated into micro lots and overseen by members of the Zelaya Onteras family, with a model that emphasizes quality control and producer investment. Roasted to a medium profile, this coffee is designed to feel smooth and complete, with a sweet, fruit leaning character and a polished finish that works across filter brewing and espresso.