We have known Richard Bottorff for several years through our involvement in the Hawaii Coffee Association and helped connect him with buyers of his green coffee. Last year we got sent a sample of a washed coffee from Richard that really impressed us and started talking about featuring his coffee on our menu.

We received samples of this year’s extra fancy crop and it genuinely blew our socks off. It really is a perfect example of a clean, delicious washed Typica cultivar. With a base of milk chocolate that brings lots of sweetness and juicy orange that creates a plump mouthfeel with aromatics of vanilla and jasmine that bring a delicate and beautiful aftertaste.

Meet the Farmer: Richard Bottorff & 'Apapane Coffee Farm

High above Captain Cook village, perched at a breathtaking 2,000 feet on the slopes of the Mauna Loa volcano, lies ‘Apapane Coffee Farm. This is where full-time resident and farmer Richard Bottorff dedicates his days to cultivating some of the most celebrated, award-winning 100% Kona coffee in the world.

We partnered directly with Richard to bring you this rare, Extra Fancy grade lot—a true labor of love that perfectly balances meticulously refined agriculture with deep respect for the Hawaiian ecosystem.

Rooted in Stewardship & Soil

For Richard, exceptional coffee isn't forced; it’s nurtured. The farm features heritage Kona Typica trees planted in stages over the last 50 years, rooted deeply in ancient volcanic lava flows. To preserve the land for future generations, Richard bypasses heavy commercial techniques in favor of sustainable agricultural husbandry. The soil is continuously renewed by mulching rich, organic vegetative matter right back into the earth.

From March through October, natural afternoon cloud cover rolls over the mountain, shielding the trees from harsh sun and allowing the coffee cherries to mature slowly and develop their signature large size and complex sweetness.

Farming with a Higher Purpose

The farm takes its name—'Apapane (pronounced *ah-pah-PAH-ney*)—from the vibrant crimson honeycreeper bird native to the Hawaiian islands. The name isn't just a tribute; it’s a mission.

"We believe that we are temporary caretakers of this beautiful mountainside. Our goal is to ensure the farm thrives ecologically just as much as it does agriculturally." — Richard Bottorff

To back up that philosophy, a portion of all profits from 'Apapane Coffee Farm goes directly toward restoring the native forest habitats these beautiful, iconic birds depend on. When you brew this Extra Fancy lot, you aren't just supporting Richard and his dedicated team of local pickers—you are actively participating in the preservation of Hawaii's fragile, spectacular wildlife.

Producers Name: Richard Bottorff

Farm Name: ‘Apapane Coffee Farm

Location: Captain Cook, Kona, Hawaii Island

Harvest: Hand picked in fall 2025

Variety: Typica

Process: Washed

Drying Method: initial patio dried and finished in dryer

This is a relationship coffee from our friend Richard Bottorff . This is the first year purchasing 150lb at $26 per pound.  We hope to continue working and building on our relationship with ‘Apapane Coffee Farm