Ethiopia Guji G1 Washed - Uraga Raro (2019 Crop)

This is a grade 1 washed lot from Raro Boda washing station, Uraga woreda (district) in the Guji region of Ethiopia.

THE PRODUCERS

This lot is comprised of coffee from 543 smallholder farmers who are local to Raro Boda washing station. Farmers typically have a small area of land and cultivate heirloom varieties with the local names Wolisho and Dega at altitudes between 1,974 and 2,280masl.

THE PROCESS

This coffee is fully washed at a central washing station. Farmers deliver their ripe cherries to the washing station where they are carefully sorted and floated to select only the highest quality for processing. The cherries are pulped and then fermented in water for 36-48 hours depending on ambient conditions. The coffee is then thoroughly washed in clean water grading channels, after which it is dried in the sun on raised African beds for 12-15 days, or until the optimum moisture content has been reached. In the daytime the parchment needs to be raked and turned periodically to ensure a consistent drying process. The coffee is also covered between 12pm and 3pm to protect it from the hot sun, and at night time to protect it from rainfall and moisture.

THE REGION
 
Raro Boda washing station is located in Uraga woreda, Sidamo, in the Oromia region of Ethiopia. The region has a distinguished reputation for producing some of the most sought-after and characterful coffees in the world. The combination of high altitude, plentiful sunshine, unique 'indigenous heirloom' varieties and an abundance of local knowledge all contribute to a cup profile characterised by clean, citric acidity, sweet chocolate notes, and floral notes.