The Oddball

Chikmagalur, often called the "Coffee Land of India," is a beautiful region in Karnataka's Western Ghats, famous for its rich coffee-growing heritage. Coffee cultivation began here in the 17th century, when Baba Budan smuggled seven beans from Yemen, secretly planting them in the region. Today, Chikmagalur produces exceptional Arabica and Robusta beans, thanks to its ideal climate and fertile soils. Fun fact: Chikmagalur is home to India’s first-ever coffee plantation, established over 350 years ago on the slopes of the Baba Budan Giri hills, where coffee continues to thrive today.

Kerehaklu Estate is run by a father-son duo where Ajoy brings in his 35 year expertise and Prannoy heads innovation and experimentation. Prannoy is zealous and enthusiastic about introducing new micro lots every year. At an Elevation of 3750 ft, coffee in this estate is shade grown and results in sweet yet complex coffees. Why we picked this estate? Because of their commitment to research and pushing the boundaries of specialty coffee.

The SL 795 coffee varietal is a well-regarded Arabica variety, originally developed in India by the Central Coffee Research Institute. Known for its high resistance to leaf rust and drought, it is widely grown in regions like Chikmagalur. SL 795 produces beans with a rich, full-bodied flavor and balanced acidity, often exhibiting hints of fruit and subtle sweetness. This varietal is prized for its adaptability to diverse growing conditions, making it a favorite among farmers. Coffee enthusiasts appreciate SL 795 for its distinctive cup profile and the complexity it adds to specialty coffee blends.