A high-elevation agroforest in the Eastern Ghats.
Our Farm
Nestled in the breathtaking Shevaroy Hills of Yercaud, Tamil Nadu, our estate is located in one of India's most celebrated coffee-growing regions. The Shevaroy Hills derive their name from Lord Shevararayan, the guardian deity of the hills, whose temple stands at the highest peak of the range. The name Yercaud comes from the Tamil words "Yeri" (lake) and "Kaadu" (forest), meaning "The Forest of Lakes."
Yercaud was first discovered and developed by David Cockburn, the British Collector of Salem, during the early 19th century. Revered as the "Father of Yercaud," he introduced the cultivation of Arabica coffee and various fruit crops, laying the foundation for the region's rich agricultural heritage.
Spanning an area of approximately 383 square kilometres and rising to an elevation of 5,325 feet above sea level, the Shevaroy Hills offer an exceptional terroir for specialty coffee cultivation.
Our coffee is grown at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 4,600 feet above sea level, where cool temperatures, misty mornings, and fertile mountain soils create ideal conditions for producing outstanding Arabica coffee. The region receives 65 to 80 inches of annual rainfall, naturally enriching the soil with essential nutrients and fostering a thriving microbial ecosystem that contributes to the development of exceptional coffee cherries.
The estate embraces a diverse agroforestry system, intercropped with pepper, oranges, jackfruit, avocado, mango, banana, and areca nut, creating a balanced and sustainable farming environment. Our coffee plants flourish beneath a rich canopy of shade trees, including Silver Oak, Indian Blackberry, Cypress, Guava, Plantain, and numerous native forest species. This natural shade slows the maturation of the cherries, enhancing sweetness, complexity, and flavour development in the cup.
Beyond coffee cultivation, our farm serves as a sanctuary for biodiversity. The estate supports a wide range of wildlife, including numerous species of birds, insects, and mammals such as the Indian Gaur (Bison), Wild Boar, Indian Porcupine, Squirrels, and the Small Indian Civet. This harmonious relationship between agriculture and nature reflects our commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable farming practices.
For generations, the Shevaroy Hills have been renowned for producing distinctive shade-grown Arabica coffees, celebrated for their vibrant character, complexity, and exceptional cup quality. We are proud to continue this legacy, cultivating coffees that authentically express the unique terroir of Yercaud while preserving the natural beauty of the hills for future generations.
Indigenous Core at the Heart of Our Farm
Our farm is deeply rooted in the strength and beauty of our indigenous ecosystem. We prioritize our lovable indigenous cows and native plants, which not only flourish in this environment but also bring authenticity and balance to our coffee. These indigenous lives are at the core of our organic practices, providing natural resilience and sustainability.
Cultivating Coffee within an Agroforest
Our coffee grows within a carefully maintained agro-forest, where each plant benefits from the natural shade and biodiversity around it. This method mimics the coffee's natural habitat, promoting healthy growth and ensuring a robust flavour profile, while also protecting local flora and fauna.
Friendly Coexistence with Farm Wildlife
From birds to beneficial insects and other small creatures, the wildlife on our farm plays a vital role in maintaining a balanced ecosystem. We treat each species with respect, allowing them to thrive alongside our crops. These partnerships contribute to natural pest control, pollination, and biodiversity, making our coffee farm a harmonious haven for all.
Sustainable Composting with Natural Ingredients
We prepare our own compost using cow manure and plant-based green waste. This rich, organic compost enhances soil fertility without relying on synthetic fertilizers, supporting healthy, nutrient-rich coffee plants and reducing waste naturally.
Encouraging Local Earthworms for Soil Health
Indigenous earthworms are essential to soil health. By fostering their presence, we naturally aerate the soil and boost its nutrient content. Their activity enriches our coffee plants from the ground up, promoting deep-rooted, resilient growth.
Natural Mulching from the Agroforest
The agroforest itself generates natural mulch, which we use to protect the roots of our coffee plants, retain moisture, and enrich the soil with organic matter. This sustainable mulching method minimizes water needs and supports the natural balance of the ecosystem.
Together, these organic practices define our commitment to growing coffee that's not only flavourful but also kind to the land. From seed to harvest, we prioritise sustainable methods, ensuring that each cup of coffee from our farm reflects the pure, untouched beauty of nature.
Arabica
