Little Waves Coffee

Mauricio Shattah - Maragogype Nuruk Fermentation - Colombia

Mauricio Shattah's Maragogype from Finca La Negrita in Tolima, Colombia (1,900–2,100 MASL) undergoes an 18-hour nuruk anaerobic fermentation—using a traditional Korean grain starter—followed by nitrogen flushing to eliminate excess CO₂ and prevent harsh sourness. The cherries ferment in climate-controlled darkness at 17°C, then dry for 6–8 weeks under infrared-only light. The result is a vivid, layered cup with maraschino cherry, grape gummy bears, kiwi, pineapple turnover cake, and rum notes—remarkably clear and balanced despite its experimental processing. This competition-series lot showcases how precise fermentation control and a large-bean variety unlock aromatic complexity and sweetness without the typical funkiness of aggressive anaerobes.