Ethiopian Yirgacheffe – Fair Specialty Coffee

Ethiopian Yirgacheffe 2 Fully Washed

Light Roast

There’s a reason why Ethiopian Yirgacheffe consistently ranks among the best coffee in the world, and certainly the among the best in Ethiopia itself.

Yirgacheffe (also spelled Yirgachefe, Yergacheffe, or Yerga Chefe) is a micro-region within the much larger region of Sidama (or Sidomo) in southern Ethiopia. It is widely considered the birthplace of coffee.

Ethiopian Yirgacheffe has a light to medium body (although they can be full body as well). As is typical with other coffees from this region, it has a distinctively fruity flavor profile and a bright, floral aroma thanks to wet-processed beans cultivated at a high elevation (between 5,800 to 6,600 ft).

Fair Specialty Coffee’s journey commenced in 1991 in the beautiful landscapes of Yirgacheffe, marking three decades of dedicated coffee cultivation within the family. Founded by Mr. Bogale Mengistu, their legacy began with a commitment to excellence in coffee production, initially serving local markets and subsequently expanding to supply esteemed exporters and to Ethiopian Commodity Exchange (ECX) since its inception in 2008. Inheriting this rich heritage, Mr. Mikiyas Bogale returned from Germany to build upon his father’s vision, establishing Fair Specialty Coffee in 2018.

Situated amidst the picturesque Yirgacheffe region, the company boasts a state-of-the-art washing station, strategically positioned to harness the essence of this coffee paradise. Spanning over 20 hectares of highland terrain, our farm resides in the esteemed “Ressiti” kebele, neighboring the renowned “Aricha” area, renowned for its exceptional coffee varietals. At altitudes ranging from 1900m to 2200m, we meticulously cultivate and harvest the finest Yirgacheffe beans, offering both washed and natural (sun-dried) coffees to discerning palates. In addition to our core offerings, we actively engage in collaborative efforts, crafting experimental micro-lots tailored to the preferences of their respected clients.

Committed to ethical practices, Fair Specialty Coffee operates in alignment with Fair Trade principles, fostering direct relationships with coffee farmers and ensuring fair compensation. Driven by a commitment to quality, transparency, and mutual respect, they endeavor to forge enduring partnerships grounded in dialogue and shared values, thus perpetuating the legacy of excellence in the global coffee community.

Origin – Ethiopia
Process – Washed
Harvest – October – February
Species – Coffea Arabica
SCA score – 85
Varietal – Heirloom

Rory’s Tasting Notes:

Citrus fruit, Lemonade, Hazelnut, Berry, Black tea, Red apple