Balanoor Vontekad

About this coffee

With a delicate combination of silky texture, bright citrus blossom notes, and hints of honeydew melon and golden raisins, this coffee yields a truly memorable cup. The dedication and commitment of Mr. Ashok Kuriyan and his son Rohan are evident in every cup. As old friends and long-time collaborators, we have always enjoyed visiting their farms, working with them, and roasting their delightful coffees. Balanoor Plantations is a diversified agricultural operation cultivating not only coffee but also pepper, areca nut, and timber within its extensive growing areas. The plantation has a long-standing commitment to the welfare of its staff, providing more than just statutory benefits. Employees and their families receive free medical care, housing, education, retirement benefits, and childcare services through an on-site crèche. In recent years, the plantation has undertaken a significant initiative to modernize its worker housing, replacing old labor lines with new units that include two bedrooms, a living room, kitchen, and attached bathroom. All homes are equipped with electricity and running water, fostering a strong sense of community and connection among the workers which, in turn, contributes to mutual development. In addition to its social commitments, Balanoor Plantations places a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability. The plantation adheres to a policy of maintaining at least two jungle trees per acre alongside other mixed tree species. These trees are preserved to enhance micro-organismic activity, with fallen leaves decomposing to serve as mulch. To combat soil erosion and conserve water during the heavy monsoon seasons, the plantation has dug soil and water collecting pits throughout the estate and along roads. Check dams, trenches, and tanks are strategically placed to facilitate rainwater harvesting, significantly improving the water table levels. Balanoor Plantations is a haven for wildlife, adhering to a strict no-hunting policy to ensure the safety and protection of the diverse species inhabiting the estate. The plantation is home to a variety of animals, including The Indian Bison, Spotted Deer, Sambar, Fox, Wild Boar, Wild Goat, Peacock, Wild Fowl, Rabbit, Woodpecker, Slender Loris, various snake species, Laggar Falcon, House Sparrow, Crows, Bulbul, Flower Pecker, Myna, Owl, Indian Parakeet, Pigeon, among others. Organic and Rainforest Certification The plantation includes a 50-acre Certified Organic Arabica division known as Vontekad, certified by IMO. This division has maintained its organic status for several years and has shown a consistent increase in yield. Additionally, the entire Arabica estate is Rainforest Alliance certified, underscoring Balanoor's commitment to sustainable farming practices. Balanoor Plantations takes meticulous care to ensure the preservation and cleanliness of its water bodies. Water treatment plants are installed at all pulping locations to treat effluent water, which is then stored and reused for irrigation. Through these rigorous water management practices, the plantation has calculated that it replenishes more water than it consumes, highlighting its effective water conservation and reuse strategies. In summary, Balanoor Plantations exemplifies a balanced approach to agricultural excellence, social welfare, environmental sustainability, and wildlife conservation, all while maintaining a high standard of coffee production.