What is a Micro-lot?

Micro-lot

In the specialty coffee world of today, one might hear the term “micro-lot” being used more frequently. This is a novel term for a lot of people. Many may not be able say what it is, and why exactly it matters.

At its most basic definition, a micro-lot is a specific (usually smaller) plot of land that produces high-grade specialty coffee, with a consistent cupping score of 85 pts or higher. The micro-lot may operate independently, or as a part of a larger farm/co-op. 

An Australian company, Coffee Beans Delivered, offers a helpful analogy:

“Imagine you have an orchard and most of the trees produce great apples, but you’ve noticed that in one spot of the orchard the apples are phenomenal. Like out of this world better. These apples taste better, are crispier and juicer. So you decide to fence these babies off, water them specially, listen to their every whim and need, and give them all the special attention they deserve. Then when it comes time to harvest, you keep them aside and process them separately, so they are delightfully shiny and good looking. Then you get to sell these special apples to special buyers who will pay top dollar for the top apples.”

Cultivar

This is a good time to introduce a related term: cultivar. Coffee Arabica that is grown today is not the exact same plant that originated in Ethiopia centuries ago. The specialty grade coffee that we enjoy today is a prime example of a cultivar; the product of cultivation. This means that through the careful process of selective breeding, farmers can purposely yield more high-quality coffees. 

As the industry continues to evolve, coffee professionals are making sure to emphasize the importance of knowing where their beans come from; the more specific, the better. An example of this is how the coffee is presented and labeled for the consumer. It is very common and encouraged for roasters to label the coffee after the farm or farmer that produced it (i.e. Honduras Betty Perez, Colombia La Yalena, Guatemala Finca Medina, etc). This strengthens one’s connection to the supply chain and gives recognition to the hard work put into the cup of coffee you drink.

This leads to one more question that needs to be answered: are micro-lots and nano-lots the same?

These two terms are indeed different! Take all the characteristics of a micro-lot, amplify them, and then you have a nano-lot. Nano-lots are even more limited, even higher scoring, and even more traceable (down to the latitude and longitude!)

This month, Fortuna is proud to introduce three new micro-lots from the country of Costa Rica: Alma Negra, Finca El Alto, and Cattleya. Each of these coffees have been treated with special care through every part of the journey. From the farm to your favorite mug, we are excited for you to try them soon!