Nestled in the rugged mountains of northern Thailand, Wichai Kamnerdmongkon is quickly becoming one of the nation’s most respected coffee producers. His farm, perched at 1,350 meters above sea level, was once a humble cabbage plot tended by his father. After transitioning from vegetables to coffee, Wichai embraced the mountain’s cool climate, native forest shade, and rich biodiversity to cultivate thriving plants.
Growing coffee at this elevation comes with unique challenges. The cooler temperatures slow the ripening process and increase the risk of frost or sudden weather changes. These conditions demand patience and careful management throughout the growing season, but the slower maturation allows the beans to develop deeper sweetness and greater complexity.
As a key member of the Coffee de Hmong Bio cooperative, Wichai’s dedication to sustainable farming and exceptional quality culminated in a remarkable achievement at the 2024 Cup of Excellence. His honey-processed Java variety earned Thailand’s top ranking with an impressive score of 91.8 points, a milestone not only for Wichai, but for the entire cooperative he proudly represents.
Wichai’s honey process starts by depulping the coffee cherries but drying them with a sticky layer of fruit mucilage still clinging to the beans, almost like they’re gently coated in honey. As the beans slowly dry under the sun, natural sugars from the fruit seep in, bringing a soft sweetness with a playful tamarind-like tang that perfectly complements the Java variety’s earthy foundation and bright, juicy acidity. Known for its rich and full-bodied character, the Java bean shines here, with the honey process adding a lovely balance of smooth body and lively brightness, an expression of both technical mastery and deep respect for the craft.
This rare cup opens with bright notes of green tea, juicy stone fruit, and fresh orange, gracefully balanced by delicate floral hints of chamomile and jasmine. The Java variety’s signature earthy richness gently grounds the cup, adding depth and complexity, while warm layers of brown sugar and ripe berries provide a smooth, comforting finish. Together, these flavors create a harmonious and memorable experience that reflects the care, vision, and precision behind every step of its journey.
With just 99.21 pounds in the lot and a purchase price of $84.40 per pound, this coffee is more than a high-end rarity, it’s a testament to the rising value and recognition of Thai coffee, fueled by farmers like Wichai who pour their hearts into every harvest.
Wichai’s success resonates far beyond his farm. It’s a source of pride for his cooperative and community, and a powerful example of how one family’s legacy can shape a brighter future. With his wife by his side and their young children growing up among the coffee trees, Wichai is not just producing exceptional coffee, he’s building something lasting, rooted in family, resilience, and the shared dream of what Thai coffee can become.
