Introduction:Ninety Plus, a leader in the specialty coffee industry, enjoys an outstanding reputation among coffee enthusiasts worldwide for its unique Level grading system and innovative processing methods. This article takes an in-depth look at classic coffee offerings from Ninety Plus, including iconic Panamanian Geisha and Ethiopian heirloom varieties such as Juliette, Lotus Solkiln, and Honey Kiss Ruby. It explores each coffee’s origin, altitude, processing method, and captivating flavors, helping you master the secrets of selecting high-quality pour over beans and understanding their flavor profiles.
Ninety Plus is a flagship brand in the global specialty coffee scene, renowned for its rigorous grading system and groundbreaking post-harvest processing techniques. By blending science with artistry, the brand gives each coffee bean a uniquely expressive flavor. This article will provide a comprehensive introduction to Ninety Plus’s classic series, including star varieties from Panamanian Geisha estates and rare native Ethiopian cultivars, offering you an in-depth understanding of the processing logic and flavor secrets behind these top-tier coffees.
First up is a certain brand’s Juliette H2, sourced from Ninety Plus’s Panamanian Geisha Estate. It belongs to the 2013–2014 harvest of the Geisha variety, grown at altitudes between 1250 and 1650 meters, and is classified as Level 39. This lot uses the honey processing method. In terms of flavor, besides showcasing the bright and clean profile typical of Geisha beans, it also emits elegant floral notes, along with pronounced citrus peel, caramel, and nut aromas. The cup is rounded and layered, making it ideal for coffee lovers who enjoy a balanced interplay of fruitiness and sweetness.
Another noteworthy option is a certain brand’s Lotus Solkiln H2, also from the Panamanian Geisha Estate, sharing the same harvest season and variety as Juliette but with a much higher Level of 95. It employs Ninety Plus’s proprietary patented Solkiln honey process. This technique involves precisely controlling indoor temperature and humidity to extend the drying time of the coffee cherries, thereby enhancing flavor complexity while maintaining the clean characteristics of washed processing. Its flavor profile centers on figs and honey, complemented by delicate layers of tropical fruits such as cantaloupe and kiwi. With a long and smooth aftertaste, it is an excellent choice for advanced pour over enthusiasts.
Among sun-dried options, a certain brand’s Perci N2 also hails from the Geisha Estate. It is from the 2013–2014 harvest of the Geisha variety, with similar altitude and Level as previously mentioned. Using traditional natural processing, it amplifies intense flavors of cherry, carob, vanilla, and tropical fruits, along with a juice-like burst of flavor. It suits consumers who prefer richly fruity profiles. For those looking to go a step further, there’s Perci Red N2, which utilizes red processing with a Level of 95. Its technique is akin to natural processing but more refined, further highlighting vanilla and fruit juice aromas, along with a hint of sweet wine-like fermentation. Tropical fruit notes such as mango, pineapple, banana, and red grape become even more three-dimensional, while honey and peach notes add a gentle finish.
Advanced enthusiasts shouldn’t miss a certain brand’s Perci Ruby N2, which also comes from the Geisha Estate and is classified as Level 195 — the highest tier. It uses Ninety Plus’s patented Ruby processing method. This technique brings out intense cognac and honey aromas, with tropical fruits like mango and pineapple expressing even more exuberantly, accompanied by a distinct wine-like character. Flavors such as banana, red grape, honey, and peach become even richer against the backdrop of the winey notes, making it the dream choice for coffee lovers seeking the ultimate flavor experience.
A certain brand’s Sillvia Solkiln N2 is another 2013–2014 harvest Geisha from the Geisha Estate, with a Level of 95, using Ninety Plus’s patented Solkiln sun-dried method. This coffee preserves the clarity reminiscent of washed processing during the extended drying period, while simultaneously releasing intense juice-like sensations and tropical fruit aromas. The imagery of pineapple shortcake and a lingering sweet aftertaste make it a standout in the sun-dried series, balancing freshness with richness.
Turning to the Ethiopian region, a certain brand’s Kemgin W2 is a blend from multiple Ninety Plus origins in Wellega, Sidama, and Yirgacheffe. Also from the 2013–2014 harvest of Ethiopian heirloom varieties, it grows at altitudes between 1750 and 2000 meters and is categorized as Level 7, an entry-level grade. Processed via washed method, its flavors present a unique combination of white peach, lime, honeydew, ginseng, and carob. It suits users who enjoy a blend of fresh herbal and fruity notes.
A certain brand’s Tchembe N2 focuses on Ethiopian heirloom varieties from the Yirgacheffe region. Also at Level 7 and from the 2013–2014 harvest, natural processing gives it a heavier body, with an earthy and dark fruit foundation accented by subtle citrus notes. It showcases the wild charm typically found in Ethiopian beans.
The Honey Kiss series is a classic from Ninety Plus’s Ethiopian lineup. A certain brand’s Nekisse N2 uses heirloom varieties from the Wellega and Sidama regions, at Level 12 and processed naturally. Its clean and multi-layered profile is impressive, with an excellent balance of peach, berries, passionfruit, as well as cream and milk chocolate. From hot brews to cold drips, it reveals delicate floral notes alongside subtle blueberry, sandalwood, and cocoa details. It’s an excellent all-rounder for both daily drinking and tasting.
The advanced Nekisse Red N2 also comes from the same regions, at Level 39 and processed with natural and red methods. It intensifies aromas of blueberry, cherry, and cognac, while skillfully maintaining the balance between fruit and chocolate. With its multi-layered and distinct profile, it’s a must-try premium bean for advanced enthusiasts.
The pinnacle of the series, a certain brand’s Nekisse Ruby N2, is the ultimate expression, classified as Level 95. With natural processing, it showcases astonishing notes of blueberry, cherry, and cognac, with a bright and clean flavor structure. The intense dark chocolate flavor almost reaches the strength of pure cocoa powder. It’s the ultimate choice for coffee lovers pursuing extreme flavor experiences and tasting value.
The above content is compiled by CoffeeHunters, a coffee news website.
