Background:
Kaapi Royale is a high grade of Indian Robusta from the hillsides of Southern India.
This coffee is grown under the shade of natural forests, unlike most Robusta plantations that are exposed to direct sunlight. Robusta typically contains twice the caffeine (and antioxidants) of Arabica beans. Kaapi Royale typically does not have the same aftertaste as an unwashed Robusta coffee. Mostly used in European style espresso blends but can be used in drip blends.
Taste notes:
Kaapi Royale is distinctive in its smooth and rich taste, without the strong acidity and harshness associated with Robusta coffees. This is a full bodied and strong coffee, which is smooth on the palate, with a nice lively taste and rich flavour. Medium body and mellow orange acidity carry through to the finish. Spice nuts and chocolate notes throughout. Kaapi Royale usually does not have the same aftertaste as an unwashed Robusta coffee. The fragrance and aroma are deliciously intense and unique. The taste isn't typical of a Robusta - expect a clean, woody flavour with a smooth, nutty aftertaste. Full body.
Roasting notes:
Use a small amount of Kaapi Royale in your espresso blend for greater crema and caffeine hit. Use no more than 10% of Kaapi Royale in an espresso blend and notice the difference. Robusta is low in acidity and sugar so there is not a lot of transformation going on in the roasting process. Kaapi Royale needs a lot of rest after roasting, as much as four days or more.