Lincoln Hosts Fairtrade Coffee Tasting, Brewing Global Connections with Darjeeling
On Saturday, 14th June 2025, Lincoln welcomed guests to a special Fairtrade Coffee Tasting Event held at Holy Cross Church Hall, celebrating ethical trade, community partnerships, and global solidarity. The event was hosted by The Centre for Reconciliation (TCfR) as partof its mission to promote inclusive community development and international collaboration.
Guests were invited to sample artisan coffee grown in the Darjeeling Hills of India — a region more commonly known for its tea — which is now gaining attention in the global coffee scene. The beans were sourced from smallholder farmers in Kalimpong District, processed and roasted by Darjeeling Altura (DA), a micro-enterprise that partners directlywith local farmer collectives. The coffee was sent to Lincoln by Bishop Roshan Thapa, whovisited the city in November 2024 to help develop this international partnership throughTCfR.
The event was attended by members of the TCfR Board, local community leaders, and Councillor Alan Briggs, former Mayor of Lincoln. Attendees shared feedback on the taste, quality, and packaging of the coffee in support of a pilot initiative to introduce it toLincolnshire via the TCfR Fairtrade Shop.
“TCfR are delighted to embark on this exciting initiative. There is no better time than now to take this important step. Choosing a Fairtrade product means supporting producers who receive a fair price and premium, who care for the environment, and who work free from exploitation, child labour or forced labour. Fairtrade prioritises workers’ rights, ensuring safe conditions and the opportunity to improve their quality of life. It’s about more than just trade — it’s about dignity, justice, and empowering communities to thrive.
Because workers deserve better. It’s that simple — it’s fair.” Reverend Steve Holt, Chair of TCfR
“This event is more than just a tasting — it’s about connecting communities, supporting ethical livelihoods, and working towards Lincoln’s continued recognition as a Fairtrade City,” said Subash Chellaiah, Executive Director of TCfR.
A High-Latitude Brew with a Unique Story
Unlike most coffee grown in tropical zones at high altitudes, Darjeeling’s coffee is cultivatedin temperate, high-latitude hills, between 3,300 and 4,000 feet. These conditions contributeto its unique flavour profile and growing characteristics. The beans tasted at the event wereArabica varietals — primarily Chandragiri and some Bourbon — grown by the Sangsay Khasmahal Farmers’ Collective in Kalimpong and processed using the washed method.
Farming families in this region are emerging from the decline of traditional cash crops suchas mandarins and cardamom. With leadership from individuals like Arjun Rai and support from the local church and Bishop Roshan, coffee is becoming a promising new livelihood, rooted in sustainability and community empowerment.
“After past struggles with crop failure and market access, this initiative is helping to rebuildtrust and income for farmers. Through better training, farm-level processing, andpartnerships like this one with TCfR, we’re seeing hope return to these hill communities,”said a spokesperson from DA.
Looking Ahead
This tasting event forms part of broader efforts to support Lincoln’s status as a FairtradeCity while strengthening ethical global supply chains. By working directly with producers,the initiative ensures traceability, transparency, and a fair return for farmers.
Feedback and photos from the event will help shape the next steps in introducing Darjeeling-grown coffee through local outlets in Lincoln and the wider region.
