A Warm Welcome to Elon Farmstay

As I arrived at Elon Farmstay in Lâm Hà District, I was greeted by Jenny and Thanh, the passionate second-generation coffee farmers who would be my hosts for the day. Their warm smiles and genuine enthusiasm for coffee were infectious, and I immediately felt at home. The farmstay itself was a charming blend of rustic and modern, with lush coffee plantations stretching as far as the eye could see.

Jenny and Thanh began by sharing their family’s history in coffee farming, a legacy that has been passed down through generations. It was fascinating to hear about their journey and how they have adapted traditional methods to produce Fine Robusta coffee green beans for roasters and traders worldwide. Their dedication to quality and sustainability was evident in every aspect of their work.

As we walked through the farm, Jenny explained the intricacies of coffee cultivation, from selecting the right soil to nurturing the plants. I was amazed by the level of care and attention that goes into every step of the process. It was clear that this was more than just a business for them; it was a way of life.

Hands-On Coffee Harvesting

The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the hands-on coffee harvesting experience. Jenny handed me a basket and guided me through the process of picking ripe coffee cherries. It was November, the perfect time to witness the harvest in full swing. The air was filled with the sweet aroma of ripe cherries, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment as I filled my basket.

Jenny and Thanh patiently explained how to identify the best cherries, emphasizing the importance of selecting only the ripest ones to ensure the highest quality coffee. It was a meticulous process, but their passion made it enjoyable and rewarding. I gained a newfound appreciation for the hard work and dedication that goes into producing each cup of coffee.

After harvesting, we moved on to the processing area, where I watched as the cherries were transformed into green beans. Jenny explained each step, from pulping to drying, and how these processes impact the flavor profile of the coffee. It was a fascinating insight into the art and science of coffee production.

Roasting and Tasting

The final part of the experience was the roasting and tasting session. Thanh guided me through the roasting process, allowing me to roast my own batch of coffee. The transformation from green beans to aromatic coffee was mesmerizing, and I was eager to taste the fruits of my labor.

As we sat down to enjoy a freshly brewed cup of coffee, Jenny and Thanh shared their knowledge of different roasting styles and how they influence the taste. It was a sensory journey, and I savored every sip, appreciating the complex flavors and aromas that had been carefully crafted.

The day ended with a heartfelt farewell from Jenny and Thanh, who encouraged me to take some of their freshly roasted coffee home as a memento of my visit. As I left Elon Farmstay, I felt a deep connection to the world of coffee and a newfound respect for the farmers who dedicate their lives to this craft.

For anyone traveling through Vietnam, I highly recommend this coffee experience for a unique and immersive journey from farm to cup. It’s an opportunity to learn, connect, and savor the rich flavors of Vietnamese coffee in a way that few other experiences can offer.