Ethiopia Aricha Washed

The Aricha area is situated within the larger Yirgacheffe region, a part of the dense and competitive highland zone of Gedeo, consisting of 8 woredas or districts. Gedeo, a significant coffee-producing region, is often commercially referred to as "Yirgacheffe," thanks to the famed coffee terroir of the Yirga Chefe district. The Aricha station, established in 2009, is a key player in this coffee-rich environment, employing about 250 people during harvest months. Apart from producing traditional fully washed coffees, the station also crafts sun-dried naturals. This particular coffee originates from 700 small producers around the Kebel Aricha coffee mill, where ripe cherries, including typical and heirloom varieties, are delivered. The cherries undergo in-cherry fermentation for 12-15 days after being hand-sorted for quality upon arrival at the station. The drying process, lasting 12-15 days depending on weather conditions, involves meticulous hand-sorting and manual rotation of cherries on raised beds. The result is a remarkably unique coffee, distinguished by its sweet, clean, and bright flavor profile, showcasing the dedication of smallholder farmers and the precision at the Aricha station.