Every partnership is different
We've carefully chosen to partner with 7 distinct countries in our coffee supply chain, each contributing unique qualities to our offerings. Our long-term relationships with these farmers are built on a foundation of shared passion and the consistent quality of their coffee. Our sourcing philosophy allows us to bring people closer to the products they consume while sustaining remarkable coffee farmers sustainably. By concentrating on fewer countries, we're able to deepen our connections and enhance our social impact.
When asked about our favorite coffee or producing country, we often liken it to having children – impossible to choose favorites. These countries possess diverse cultures, geographies, climates, and landscapes that defy easy comparison. Instead, we encourage a growing appreciation and curiosity for each unique origin.
At Tenfold, we've made the deliberate decision to focus our sourcing efforts on seven key origins: Ethiopia, Tanzania, Burundi, Brazil, Colombia, El Salvador, and Mexico. As our business evolves, we may expand our horizons, but for now, we're dedicated to nurturing our connections within these countries. Here's a glimpse into each nation's distinct appeal and what fuels our ongoing curiosity.
Burundi
Burundi is a remarkably special country for several reasons. Despite its small size and occasional political instability, it stands out. The flavor profiles of Burundian coffees can range from vibrant and floral to richly fruity. Situated as a complement between the refined and floral palate of Ethiopia and the round and acidic profiles of Kenya, Burundi's harvest timing offers a unique advantage. When Ethiopian and Kenyan supplies are waning in North America, Burundian coffees arrive vibrant and fresh, ensuring a continuous offering of fresh African coffee. (Fun fact: Tenfold started with only Burundian coffees)
Tanzania
We are captivated by this country. A visit to the Ngorongoro Crater left an indelible impact on my perception of the world. In terms of coffee, while we observe many established estates in the north, it's the developments in the south that truly excite us. Our connections with friends in this region, and their dedication to not only coffee production but also to uplifting local smallholders and communities, are truly inspiring.
Ethiopia
Ethiopia, the birthplace of coffee, holds a unique status. Coffee grows wild here, setting it apart from other regions where propagation is the norm. The flavors and exquisite characteristics of Ethiopian coffee are truly unparalleled, making it a distinct offering. We hold deep respect and admiration for Ethiopian coffees, and our customers share this sentiment. This presents an exciting avenue to share exceptional coffee experiences.
El Salvador
As a young coffee buyer, the allure of Panamanian and Costa Rican exotic varietals was undeniable. The sheer quality and exhilaration of tasting these coffees for the first time is unparalleled. This bias naturally influenced my purchasing choices. However, as my perspective matured, a deep appreciation for El Salvador emerged. Notably, the country often offers profound cup profiles, a perfect fit for markets like Houston, particularly when crafting espresso blends. Moreover, El Salvador boasts a rich coffee heritage, overcoming historical political challenges. In the northern regions, a multitude of smallholders contribute to coffee production. Their earnest desire to improve and excel fuels exciting explorations of new varietals and processing methods.
Mexico
Did you know that the United States imports more Mexican coffee than any other region? Yet, much of what arrives here is low grade and used as filler. This misconception misrepresents the truth. Mexico, like its renowned spirits Mexcal and Tequila, boasts exceptional coffee producers and regionality that defines flavors. The country's gifted and experimental farmers lead to exceptional quality, as seen through numerous fermentation experiments, showcasing Mexican coffee producers' ingenuity and spirit.
Colombia
Colombia is one of the only countries to have harvest or coffee harvesting throughout an entire year. Because of the topography of the Andes Mountain, there are nooks and crannies which then create numerous sub climates and allow for coffee to be produced yearround.
There has been a renaissance with farmers and their their ability to process their coffee in unique and different ways. They have a heavy emphasis, emphasis on experimentation and processing, but also education. We are excited about Colombia diving deeper, being more intimate with the various regions and continuing our work there.
All of this makes for Colombia to be an exciting place to do work, to connect. And we love the work that coffee that our longest relationship dating back to our founders time in Australia is doing on the ground.
Brazil
For many years, we felt like Brazil did not receive the recognition in the specialty sphere or niche that many other countries received. Their coffees were often a little more approachable often found in blends.
However, the research and the information coming out of this country is second to none. Just like our Midwest, all of the universities have agricultural programs and they are all centered around coffee education or coffee advancement
In fact our longest relationship, general manager of SanCoffee has his Ph.D. in coffee processing. Who do you know that has their Ph.D. in coffee processing? Every time we go, we learn something new. There are always new varietals being planted. There are always advancements being made. And there is lots to glean as as a company trying to help in coffee advancement and creating value around coffee.