Aricha - Washed

MEET THE PRODUCER | Aricha Washing Station is located high in the coffee-growing mecca of Yirgacheffe, where conditions like fertile soil, mountainous forests, and seasoned farmers provide the ideal conditions for growing excellent Ethiopian coffee. However, the washing station itself nearly fell into ruin about a decade ago, and it was all but forgotten until a man named Faysel Abdosh saw its promise and decided to take a chance. He purchased the washing station in 2018 and spent more than a year reviving it, adding it to the long list of high-elevation washing stations he owns and operates through his trading company, Testi Coffee.

Faysel’s efforts were rewarded a year later as coffees coming out of Aricha Washing Station won awards and gained the attention of specialty exporters. Today, it is regarded as a darling of Yirgacheffe, known for consistently rolling out complex, floral delights in one of Ethiopia’s most beloved coffee-growing regions. 

TRUST THE PROCESS | After arriving at the wet mill, microlots from smallholders throughout the Aricha community are combined together, sorted for quality, and undergo traditional washed Ethiopian processing protocols. After this, they are spread out on raised African beds to dry in the sun, until optimal moisture content is achieved. 

TAKE A SIP | With vibrant acidity and an unapologetically sweet side, this coffee is an excellent example of a washed Ethiopian coffee in general and a Yirgacheffe coffee in particular. There are soft florals on the nose and lemon cookie on the palate, with a sweetness like dark honey that lingers throughout. However, what takes this coffee from “classic and lovely” to “complex and special” is a subtle stone fruit addition, like yellow peaches. 

Origin | Yirgacheffe, Ethiopia

Producer | various smallholders in the Aricha community

Washing Station | Aricha Washing Station (Testi Coffee)

Process | Washed

Variety | Kurume, Wolisho, various landraces

Elevation | 1900 MASL

This washed offering from Black & White Coffee Roasters highlights the distinct character of the Aricha community in Ethiopia · Yirgacheffe. Produced by various smallholders at 1900 masl, this lot features the Kurume varietal, which is often celebrated for its delicate profile. By utilizing a washed process, the producers emphasize clarity and brightness, allowing the inherent qualities of the bean to shine through.

In the cup, this coffee presents a nuanced experience characterized by soft florals, lemon cookie, dark honey, and yellow peaches. While individual results vary, washed coffees from this region are frequently noted for their refined acidity and tea-like elegance. To better understand how these specific descriptors align with broader industry standards, you may wish to consult the flavor wheel. This selection serves as a quintessential example of the meticulous cultivation practices found within the Yirgacheffe region.