UNEARTHING A HIDDEN TREASURE: NORTHERN LAOS
Xam Tai Honey
When most people think of Laotian coffee, they think of the Bolaven Plateau. But tucked away in the northeastern highlands of Houaphanh Province, a new chapter in the story of Lao coffee is being written, one that’s vibrant, fruit-forward, and long overdue.
We’re thrilled to introduce Xam Tai Honey, a truly unique coffee from the Xamtai District, where high-altitude farms have quietly been cultivating coffee for nearly two decades. For years, these farmers faced the harsh reality of limited market access. Their coffee went unnoticed, and their efforts underappreciated. That began to change in 2015, when Yuni Coffee Co. stepped in.
Yuni Coffee Co. isn’t just a coffee producer. They’re a catalyst for change in remote villages, working directly with farmers to rebuild confidence, introduce innovative processing methods, and create real pathways to sustainable income. Through hands-on training and long-term relationships, they’ve helped bring world-class coffee from Houaphanh to the global stage.
The Xam Tai Honey lot is the result of this dedication. It undergoes extended anaerobic fermentation, which intensifies complexity and depth, followed by honey processing, a method where the fruit’s natural sugars are allowed to linger, infusing the beans with rich sweetness. The result? A cup that’s smooth, juicy, and full of personality.
Expect notes of calamansi and vanilla, alongside caramelized sugar and a soft, floral finish. Whether you’re enjoying it as a pour-over to let its sweetness shine, or pulling a bright, complex espresso shot, this coffee is a reminder of what’s possible when quality meets purpose.
The Details:
- Origin: Xamtai District, Houaphanh Province, Laos
- Altitude: 800–1200 MASL
- Varieties: Catimor, Java
- Process: Honey (with extended anaerobic fermentation)
- Roast: City
- Tasting Notes: Calamansi, Vanilla
- Caffeinated: Yes