SATEMO SAFFRON
from Georgia
Our Story
Early in the morning, the still-closed purple blossom of the saffron crocus emerges from the earth. It must be picked as early as possible, before its six petals open in the sunlight.
For this reason, the delicate removal of the threads and the gentle drying process must take place indoors on the very day of harvest.
This labor - intensive and slow step is the main reason why saffron has always been such an expensive spice.
In some countries, saffron was once known as “red gold.” And indeed, it is not only valuable but also possesses a wide range of beneficial properties. This makes it far more than just a simple spice. To obtain one gram of finished dried saffron, 150-170 of these beautiful flowers must be harvested, processed, and carefully dried on the same day they are picked.
What makes our saffron especially unique is its fruity and floral aroma.
The proximity to the Caucasus, the gentle breeze, and the fertile soil where apple trees once flourished give it its distinctly Georgian character.
Our saffron is harvested entirely by hand by the women of the small village of Satemo. Older women, some of whom are no longer able to do heavy fieldwork for health reasons, gather indoors together with the younger women returning from the fields.
From around 9 a.m., a workday begins that often lasts until evening - and on days with more than 50,000 blossoms, even longer.
It is also a time for sharing stories, laughing together, and exchanging memories.
Our spice therefore comes from one single small place, is pure and free from additives, and is truly a single-origin spice.
In this way, our saffron - and its strength - comes directly from the sun, through the flower, to you.
The Way We Work
The region is very close to the occupied territory of South Ossetia.
Opportunities are fading, many youngsters have left. It is hard to find a good job.
That's why the seasonal income by harvesting saffron offers at least some financial independence to the local women.
Separating the three red stigmas from each flower can take six hours or more per day.
For every hour spent in the field, three more are needed at the table - time to talk about everything.
The big advantage of saffron is that its beautiful flower is almost weigtless.
That is why even women, who are elder and a bit weak on their feet can paticipate. As they say Saffron has helped them to stay in contact with their fellow villagers.
