96B Liberica Project
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The 96B Liberica Project is a specialized initiative by the Saigon-based roaster and producer 96B, dedicated to elevating the quality and global recognition of Vietnamese Liberica. By implementing rigorous processing techniques and direct partnerships with farmers in Quang Tri, the project transforms a historically undervalued species into a high-scoring, competition-grade coffee that challenges traditional perceptions of Liberica.
The 96B Liberica Project represents a concerted effort to redefine the potential of Coffea liberica within Vietnam. Based in Saigon, 96B began its exploration of the species in 2016, long before it gained significant traction in the global specialty coffee market. The project transitioned from initial scouting across various Vietnamese regions to a focused, large-scale production model in the Huong Phung commune of the Huong Hoa district, Quang Tri province, starting in 2022. This region, situated at 600 meters above sea level, benefits from a stable climate and high humidity, providing a unique environment for the trees, which were originally introduced to the area by the French in the early 20th century as windbreaks for plantations.
In practice, the 96B Liberica Project operates as both a producer and an exporter, working in direct partnership with local farming families, including members of the Quang Tri Cooperative. The project’s core philosophy centers on applying advanced post-harvest processing methods—such as lactic fermentation honey processes and 120-hour anaerobic natural fermentations—to a species that has historically been sold as a low-value commodity under various aliases. By treating Liberica with the same technical precision typically reserved for high-end Arabica, 96B aims to unlock complex flavor profiles, including notes of papaya, lychee, peach tea, and star anise.
The impact of this project extends beyond the farm gate, influencing the specialty coffee industry's perception of underutilized species. The project's output has gained international recognition, most notably when their '96B GOLD' Liberica was selected for the winning routine at the 2024 Swiss Barista Championship. This achievement serves as a benchmark for the quality potential of the species, proving that Liberica can perform at the highest levels of competitive coffee service.
For the roaster and the drinker, the 96B Liberica Project offers a departure from the traditional Arabica-dominated market. The coffee is noted for its distinct structure, creamy mouthfeel, and umami-rich depth, making it a versatile choice for both espresso-based milk drinks and pour-over preparations. By providing transparency in their supply chain and sharing detailed processing data, 96B allows consumers to understand the specific agricultural and technical labor required to produce these exceptional lots.
Beyond their production work, 96B functions as a hub for coffee education and research in Vietnam. Their involvement in the broader coffee community includes participation in industry discussions regarding the chemical diversity and potential of species like Liberica and Excelsa. This research-oriented approach aligns with global efforts to identify climate-resilient coffee varieties, positioning the 96B Liberica Project as a vital contributor to the future of sustainable coffee farming.
Today, the project stands as a definitive example of how targeted investment in processing and producer partnerships can revitalize a neglected crop. By bridging the gap between remote Vietnamese farms and the global specialty market, 96B has successfully moved Liberica from the periphery of the industry to the center of innovation, ensuring that the farmers involved receive greater recognition and value for their specialized harvests.