This Costa Rica Villa Sarchi Anaerobic from Portrait Coffee is a study in controlled fermentation and high-elevation terroir. Sourced from Juanachute Micromill in Tarrazú, one of Costa Rica's most celebrated coffee regions, this lot showcases the Villa Sarchi varietal through a natural anaerobic process—a method that produces striking complexity and vivid fruit character. Roasted light to preserve the nuanced fermentation profile, it's a coffee that rewards curiosity and careful brewing.
The anaerobic process here involves sealing whole coffee cherries in an oxygen-free environment during fermentation, which intensifies sweetness and creates layered aromatics. The result is a cup that opens with ripe blackberry and evolves into delicate rose florals, finishing with smooth dark chocolate. It's expressive without being wild, structured but not restrained—a balance that speaks to both the varietal's character and the meticulous work of the Castro family at Juanachute.
Tasting Notes
Expect bold blackberry sweetness up front, supported by floral rose notes that emerge as the cup cools. The body is round and silky, with moderate acidity that keeps everything lifted and vibrant. The finish carries smooth dark chocolate tones that linger without heaviness. This is a coffee with presence—dynamic, aromatic, and deeply satisfying whether you're dialing it in as espresso or brewing it as filter.
Brew Methods
This coffee shines across methods. As espresso, it delivers rich berry sweetness with floral complexity and chocolate depth—ideal for straight shots or milk drinks that want fruit-forward character. For pour over (V60, Kalita, Chemex), it offers clarity and structure, with the rose florals and blackberry notes coming through clean and expressive. French press brings out the chocolate finish and rounds the body beautifully. Try it with medium-fine grind for pour over or slightly coarser for immersion brewing to balance extraction and highlight its layered profile.
About Portrait Coffee
Portrait Coffee, based in Atlanta, is known for thoughtful sourcing and a roasting approach that honors the work of producers. They focus on transparency, quality, and letting exceptional coffees speak for themselves through precise, restrained roasting.
Clive's team is here to help you dial in grinder settings, recommend brewing equipment, and make sure you're getting the most from coffees like this one—whether you're new to anaerobic processes or chasing the perfect espresso recipe.