Gold Washed Coffee Explained: What Is Gold Washed Processing & Why It Tastes So Sweet
When shopping for coffee, you may have come across a processing method labeled “Gold Washed.” We’re all familiar with one of the classic processing methods— washed —but what does the addition of gold actually mean? How is it different from traditional washed coffee? Today, I’d like to dedicate this article to exploring exactly what the Gold Washed process is. I wanted to write this piece because I recently encountered an outstanding roaster from Kyoto at a coffee festival. They were showcasing a Red Bourbon from the Popayán region of Cauca, Colombia, processed using the Gold Washed method. That coffee left a deep impression on me—it was simply too good. Naturally, it sparked my curiosity to dig deeper into this processing style. (I’ll be sharing a full tasting review of that coffee later. I couldn’t resist and ordered two bags on the spot—no hesitation at all.) When it comes to “Gold Washed,” there is a certain degree of producer-specific ownership to the method. By that, I m...