ETIOPIA Sidamo West Arsi Mundayo Natural Gr 1

Description

Processing: Natural; SCA Score: 87.25 pts.

Floral and fruity taste with notes of jasmine, raspberry, and blueberry, and light hints of chocolate.

The local farms supplying the AASH station are located at altitudes above 1,900 meters above sea level. These impressive elevations, combined with ideal coffee-growing conditions, the farmers’ expertise, and quality-focused processing methods, result in a refined natural variety. Its fruity and floral aroma—emblematic of Ethiopia—turns every cup into a memorable experience.

Tradition, Sustainability, and Craftsmanship in Coffee Cultivation from West Arsi

In this region, coffee cultivation is a tradition passed down through generations. The farmers of West Arsi are true specialists, and their methods remain largely traditional. They typically grow coffee in an intercropping system alongside other food crops—a common practice among small-scale producers. This approach maximizes land use and provides essential nourishment for their families.

Beyond intercropping, most farms are also “organic by default”—naturally ecological. Farmers use little to no fertilizers or pesticides. Farm work is carried out almost entirely by hand, and mechanized processes are rare, even during post-harvest processing.

Family Labor and Care for Every Bean

Because the farms are small, most of the work is carried out by family members. Farmers carefully handpick only the ripe, red coffee cherries, which they deliver to the AASH washing station. There, the cherries are manually sorted by visual inspection to remove any defects, then laid out to dry on raised beds.

To ensure even drying, the cherries are turned frequently. The entire drying process takes between 20 and 25 days, reflecting the care and patience invested in every step.