The “Kivu Belt” is the western region that runs parallel to the shores of Lake Kivu, between the Nyungwe National forest in the south and volcanic mountains in the north. It is in this Belt where some of Rwanda’s most interesting coffees are grown, including Trader Joe’s Rwanda Isimbi Small Lot Coffee. Isimbi, meaning “pearl,” is a quite popular surname in Rwanda. This makes it the perfect moniker for this precious small lot of 100% Arabica whole beans. They are grown at just over a mile above sea level where they are harvested then dried naturally in the sun with the entire coffee “cherry” intact. Our roasters give them a delicate light roast, which yields a medium-bodied brew. (If you prefer a slightly stronger cup, we recommend adding more grounds to your coffee maker.) One sip reveals a bright, fruit-forward cup (characteristic of Rwandan coffees) with sweet, lively notes of raspberry jam, blueberry, and fig.