A tribute to the skill and dedication of Indian coffee farmers, Monsooned Malabar brings to life an ancient coffee-crafting technique that imbues the beans with unique characteristics
Starbucks Reserve® has unveiled Monsooned Malabar, a single-origin coffee sourced from India, available exclusively at select Starbucks stores across the country. This limited-edition Arabica blend draws on India’s revered coffee heritage, capturing the flavours of Southern India’s monsoon-kissed Malabar coast in each sip.
A tribute to the skill and dedication of Indian coffee farmers, Monsooned Malabar brings to life an ancient coffee-crafting technique that imbues the beans with unique characteristics, from earthy sweetness to hints of chocolate, dried spices, and a rich malty finish.
The journey of this coffee begins in the highlands of Chikmagalur, a region renowned for its fertile lands and ideal coffee-growing conditions. After harvesting, the coffee cherries are transported to the Malabar coast, where the traditional monsooning process takes place.
The beans are exposed to seasonal monsoon winds and rains for six months, during which they are carefully raked and turned, ensuring even absorption of the atmospheric moisture. This unique ageing process transforms the beans, swelling them into a light tan colour and reducing their acidity, ultimately revealing a smooth, rich flavour profile.
The Monsooned Malabar blend carries a prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag, marking its exceptional quality and authentic Indian heritage. Known worldwide for its rarity and artisanal preparation, the GI tag guarantees that each sip reflects the distinct flavour profile unique to India’s coffee-growing regions.
This Reserve® coffee invites coffee enthusiasts to experience the delicate balance of craft and culture that defines Indian coffee, celebrating its origins through a meticulously curated bean-to-cup journey.
Sushant Dash, CEO of TATA Starbucks, expressed enthusiasm for the new blend and its cultural significance. “The growth of India’s specialty coffee market is driven by a new generation of enthusiasts seeking premium experiences,” he said. “At Starbucks Reserve®, everything we do is in the name of coffee, exemplifying our passion, innovation, and expertise in this craft. The monsooning process, a time-honoured Indian tradition, results in a distinctive coffee with bold flavours. We are looking forward to showcasing India’s rich coffee heritage on a global stage and creating an elevated experience for consumers both nationally and worldwide.”
With this latest launch, Starbucks Reserve® aims to further enrich India’s burgeoning specialty coffee landscape by introducing Monsooned Malabar to coffee aficionados eager to explore authentic flavours from India.
Available in 19 select Starbucks Reserve® stores across India, this exclusive blend is priced at Rs 2400 and is expected to remain in stores until stocks last.
