At Velvet Sunrise, we’ve always been open about where our beans come from. Today, we’re writing to share an evolution in how we source our coffee—and why it matters for the future of your cup.
What: Introducing Robusta
We are beginning to incorporate Quality Robusta into our line up. For a long time, the specialty coffee industry has been exclusively focused on fine Arabica beans. However, relying on a single bean is becoming increasingly risky. By introducing Robusta, we are diversifying our supply chain to ensure we can continue to serve you sustainable coffee
for years to come.
Why: Adapting to a Changing Climate
The reality of modern agriculture is that the climate is shifting. Arabica coffee is notoriously delicate; it requires specific high
elevations and cool temperatures to thrive. As global temperatures rise, the land suitable for growing Arabica is shrinking.
Simultaneously, global demand for coffee continues to increase. Sensitive arabica crops are facing increased threats from pests, viruses, and fungus. To ensure the long-term viability of coffee agronomy, we need a coffee that is resilient.
Robusta is that bean. It grows successfully in hotter climates and at lower elevations. It is highly productive. It naturally resists the pests and diseases that are currently devastating Arabica crops. By adopting Robusta, we are supporting a farming model that is built to be resilient in a changing environment.
How: Focusing on Quality
We know that Robusta has a reputation for being bitter or low-quality—the kind of bean often found in cheap instant coffees. That is not what we are doing here.
We are sourcing specialty-grade Robusta. While the flavor profile is different from Arabica—generally heavier, with more earthy or nutty notes—it provides depth and crema. We have spent months refining our roasting process to ensure that Robusta meets the Velvet Sunrise standard you expect. You may need to adjust your brewing and expectations. You may also find you need to use less coffee – robusta is notably higher in caffeine than arabica.
Give It a Shot!
This transition is about more than just taste; it is about securing the future of coffee. We invite you to try our new bean with an open mind. It’s a logical step for the industry, and you may be pleasantly surprised by the result.
Head into the café or order a bag online and give it a shot 😉
Brewing sustainably,
The Velvet Sunrise Team
