The Unique Flavours of Australia Bundja
At Silva Coffee Roasters, we are proud to feature two remarkable coffees from Mountain Top Estate - a Natural and a Washed Process coffee.
This is a limited release for our special Christmas offering, as only a small amount of this unique coffee is produced each year. The Bundja Natural Process coffee brings a syrupy and bold body, with delicious hints of dried apricots, macadamia and honey - making it perfect for both milk and black coffee. Meanwhile, the Bundja Washed Process coffee shines with clean, deep fruit notes of black cherry, macadamia and honey, ideal for black coffee or pairing with alternative milks.
For the best experience, we recommend savoring the Natural with milk and enjoying the Washed on its own or with your favorite alternative milk.
Mountain Top Estate Farm: A Legacy of Excellence
Nestled in the mountains above Nimbin in Northern NSW, Mountain Top Estate is one of the most southern coffee-growing regions in the world. The farm's unique location, with volcanic soils, low altitude, and subtropical climate create the ideal environment for slow ripening, resulting in coffee with complex and vibrant flavours.
Coffee production here is nestled between avocado trees and macadamia farms, creating a diverse and sustainable agricultural ecosystem. This integration not only enhances the farm's biodiversity but also reflects its commitment to natural and pesticide-free practices.
The farm specializes in the Kenyan K7 Arabica variety, celebrated for its inherent sweetness, chocolate notes, and fruity brightness. Mountain Top Estate’s microlots have gained international fame, even featuring in the World Barista Championship, including the winning routine of 2005 champion Tim Wendleboe.
Today, the Whitney family continue with the farm's legacy, embracing sustainable practices while navigating the challenges of a niche industry. Their dedication ensures that Mountain Top Estate remains a leader in Australia’s specialty coffee scene.
The History of Coffee in Australia
Australia’s coffee journey began nearly 200 years ago, with the first documented crops planted in Brisbane in 1832. Coffee cultivation spread through Queensland and Northern NSW but struggled due to high labor costs and competition from cheaper imports. By the early 1900s, the industry had largely disappeared.
It wasn’t until the 1980s and 90s that advances in agricultural technology revived Australian coffee farming. A modified grape harvester, developed in North Queensland, made harvesting more efficient. Interestingly, this Australian invention gained traction overseas, particularly in Brazil.
Mountain Top Estate played a pivotal role in this revival. Established in the late 1990s, the farm’s commitment to quality and innovation helped define the modern era of Australian specialty coffee.
