We visited Rooster Farms as avid coffee lovers curious about Kona Coffee, as well the farming process of Organic Kona Coffee. Tours are done by appointment only, but we were able to be seen same day, quickly.
Drove through a gorgeous farming community, with detailed directions given to us by the owners. The roads are narrow but easy enough to drive through and the path up to the Farm is well marked.
Once there, we were greeted by one of the farmers/roasters, Axel, who was also our tour guide. We were delighted to meet the people working and living on the farm, as well as the owners of the farm. They are all incredibly friendly and lovely people with a passion for their coffee - and it shows.
Axel brewed us a cup of both the Medium Roast Estate Coffee and Dark Roast Estate Coffee using the over pour method in a fancy contraption, but we were informed that brewing any conventional way is fine. I was wary to drink the coffee black as I typically drown my coffee in cream and sugar, but wow - it was delicious. To my inexperienced palate, smooth, sweet, with hints of chocolate. I couldn't believe I was enjoying a cup of "plain ole black coffee", but this coffee quality is anything but plain, speaking for itself, and needing no fillers.
We then toured the farm where we learned about the coffee plant itself and how each berry/bean is hand picked from the tree when it is ready, ensuring the best quality coffee. Also learned that the Kona designation is limited to coffee grown in that particular area of only 650ish acres. Often times, what we see as "Kona Coffee" in the grocery store is really a blend, and that purchasing a bag of true 100% Kona Coffee is harder to find, and certified organic, even more so. We also saw the drying process and were shown how the beans are then roasted - in small batches of 15-20 lbs at a time. Truly a labor of love and work of art.
During the tour, we walked through the farm and spotted roosters in the gorgeous foliage. There were also other plants on the path, and we were even treated to avocado and star fruit as we walked by, since there were some ripe and ready for picking. (All because Axel is nice, not because it is part of the tour.) Our party was in awe of the passion for their trade and the beauty of the farm and island.
Axel is so knowledgeable and was so patient with all our questions and picture taking. His parents must be incredibly proud of all his experience and knowledge.
At the end of the tour, they have some coffee you can purchase in person, so we stocked up on both the medium and dark estate roasts to bring home with us. I was happy to find out that you can also purchase online, which I plan to do once I run out.
Highly recommend this farm as an enjoyable excursion while visiting the Big Island, as well as recommend the delicious coffee. Thanks again, Rooster Farms! read more