What is Alt X?

A specialty coffee experience featuring three alternative species to Arabica: Excelsa, Racemosa and Robusta in the face of climate change. These coffees are a result of the ongoing efforts of the producers at South India Coffee Company (SICC) and Cultivar, who are venturing into the uncharted to develop climate-resilient coffee species of the future.  

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About The Breeding Program

SICC, as part of their breeding program, is working towards researching low-intervention Coffea species for the future. To help sustain this crucial project, a percentage of our proceeds from this pack will go towards SICC’s program. Through their intense research and processing techniques, they’ve helped make this pack come to life.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The Alt X pack is a curated selection of coffees featuring three climate-resilient species: Excelsa, Racemosa, and Robusta. Climate-resilient coffees are varieties that can thrive in changing environmental conditions, including higher temperatures, lower altitudes, lower rainfall, and pest challenges, ensuring the future of coffee cultivation. 

Some of these coffees, like Racemosa, are priced higher because they’re a rare species sourced from the coastal forests of South Africa. Additionally, they’re capable of growing in unique conditions making them climate-resilient and offering a rare experience for the customers. These beans are grown in small quantities and need extra care during processing due to their tiny size and lower caffeine levels.

No, you cannot buy coffees in the Alt X pack individually. We offer 2 packs: a 3-pack with Excelsa, Racemosa and Robusta and a 100 gm. single pack of Excelsa. Some of these coffees, like Racemosa are quite rare and available in limited quantities so we’d like more of you to experience them.

Founded in 2017 by fifth-generation Coorg coffee producers, Akshay Dashrath and Komal Sable, South India Coffee Company (SICC) focuses on sustainable Indian specialty coffee. Their mission is 

 to create a more equitable coffee industry by partnering with producers, roasters, and importers. Cultivar, on the other hand, is built on a Masters-thesis and supports smallholder farmers through initiatives like planting trees. Together, they are developing climate-resilient coffee species for the future. 

For more information like brewing recipes, you can refer to our blog.

Excelsa and Racemosa are different species from Arabica. Excelsa has a woody, drought-resistant nature and a distinctive flavor profile, while Racemosa is a rare, drought-tolerant species from South Africa known for its smaller beans and unique flavors. Both species are more resilient to climate challenges than Arabica.

Racemosa is rare because it grows naturally in only a small region in South Africa and southern Mozambique. Its cultivation is limited, and the beans require special handling during processing due to their small size and low caffeine content.

These climate-resilient coffees will offer a new experience with unique flavours. Excelsa introduces complex berry-like notes, while Racemosa has more delicate and subtle flavours like dark chocolate and dried lemon. Robusta, which often has a reputation for bitterness, has been processed to reveal a smoother, richer flavour.

No, this Robusta has undergone innovative processing to enhance its flavour profile, making it smoother, more balanced, and suitable for specialty coffee drinkers who may be more familiar with Arabica.

These coffees are produced in small batches due to the unique growing conditions and experimental nature of the species. Given their small batch size we do expect them to sell out quickly.

This year, we’re hoping to launch our Excelsa nursery breeding program, providing saplings to select farms. We’ll closely monitor their progress to determine the locations based on yield. Blue Tokai will be offering even more of these intriguing coffees in the years to come.

Each coffee in the Alt X pack comes from species adapted to withstand tough climates. Excelsa, with its deep root system, is drought-resistant and thrives in areas with low rainfall. Racemosa, an indigenous South African species, is naturally drought and pest-resistant, growing in challenging environments. Robusta is known for its heat tolerance and pest resistance, making it ideal for hotter climates.

Store the coffee in an airtight container in a cool, dark place, away from moisture and direct sunlight. For longer duration, consider vacuum sealing and freezing the beans in small portions.

Unfortunately, we can’t accommodate delayed roast dates or deliveriesas we want to ensure all packs are freshly roasted and delivered as soon as possible for the best experience.

We do not accept returns or exchanges for these coffees due to their exclusive nature.  However, if you experience any issues with your order, please contact our customer service team for assistance.

As climate change impacts traditional coffee cultivation, climate-resilient species are essential to ensure the availability and quality of coffee in the future. These species can thrive in adverse conditions, helping farmers adapt to environmental changes. 

A portion of proceeds from the Alt X pack goes towards supporting SICC’s breeding program for climate-resilient coffee species, helping ensure the long-term sustainability of coffee cultivation.