Loquat, Strawberry, Cola

Variety: Heirloom

Processing: Washed

Origin: Guji, Ethiopia

Producers: Oromia Coffee Farmer's Cooperative Union

Altitude: 1900-2200m

We tend to love coffees coming out of Guji, and this lot from the Yabitu Koba washing station has only furthered that trend. Grown by the Oromia Coffee Farmers' Cooperative Union, this heirloom coffee benefits from the rich tradition of coffee cultivation in Ethiopia, where the Coffea arabica plant is thought to originate. Lots from Yabitu Koba are allowed to soak for 48 hours before processing and are spread out on raised beds to dry under indirect sunlight. It's a winning recipie, and one that coffee farmers the world over have been emulating to great success. While we're always a fan of new varietals and processing methods, it's great to get back to the roots of specialty coffee with knock-out cups of washed Ethiopian heirloom.

Yabitu Koba Lot 1 has plenty of dynamic flavors to observe when brewing. The most prominent note is the tart, distinctive flavor of loquat that really jumps out at the forefront. There's also a more traditional strawberry flavor that comes alongside the loquat note, amplifying the sweetness in the cup and keeping the loquat acidity in check. On the back end, adding just a touch of savory flavor and nuance is a note of cola that ties everything together. This is a sweet coffee, but thanks to its bright acidity and clarity Yabitu Koba Lot 1 doesn't seem overpowering. It's a clean, enjoyable cup from the birthplace of coffee and we can't think of anything better than that.