Thailand Doi Pangkhon

The producers, Merlaeku Family & Beanspire are the dry miller, and exporter of coffee from Doi Pangkhon in Chiang Rai, and have dedicated nine years to enhancing the area's coffee production. With approximately 300 households contributing 1-2 tons of parchment each, their early approach involved direct collaboration with individual producers on their wet processing methods. In the 2017-2018 season, they took a significant step by investing in a wet mill operated by the Akha Hilltribe's five Merlaeku brothers, allowing them greater control over the processing and enabling them to source cherries from beyond their family. Each season has seen continued improvements: from adding roofs and new pulpers in 2018-2019 to creating a cupping lab and installing an electricity generator in subsequent years. They also expanded their drying capabilities in the 2020-2021 season and, despite the challenges of the climate crisis impacting yields in 2022-2023, they achieved record prices. The introduction of a modified “Kenya-style washed” processing technique this season, which emphasizes extended dry fermentation, appears to have resulted in a more complex flavor profile, potentially setting a new standard for their operations. The elevation of Doi Pangkhon, ranging from 1250 to 1450 meters above sea level, enhances the quality of our coffee, primarily consisting of Catuai, Typica, Chiang Mai, and SJ133 varietals. They ensure meticulous green coffee preparation through a thorough multi-stage process including destoning, hulling, grading, and hand sorting. Their coffee is meticulously packaged in a triple-layered bag system (cotton, HDPE, and hermetic inner layers) to preserve its quality during shipping, reflecting our commitment to excellence in coffee production and export.