This coffee from a collection of smallholder farmers in Guji, Ethiopia utilises a revolutionary processing technique called supernatural.
Unlike the typical sun-drying method, supernatural incorporates a controlled fermentation stage with limited oxygen exposure. The cherries are spread in a thick layer on a sheet and rolled up like a jam roly poly -that's the essence of the supernatural process
Roasted for filter and a brighter espresso, as such this coffee would taste best brewed for filter, Aeropress, espresso or cafetiere.
Tasting notes of parma violet, strawberry and bergamot
Region: Guji
Producer: Wubanchi Mill
Varietal: JARC 74110, 7412 and 74165
Process: Supernatural
Altitude: 1950-2100m
Wubanchi Supernatural, Ethiopia
The Wubanchi washing station is located in Guji, a growing region well known for its fertile soils, consistent and plentiful rains and high altitudes of up to 2,200m. Like most of Ethiopia, coffee is deeply woven into the culture of the people of Guji - and the heirloom varietals that exist here have thrived for generations, potentially contributing to the unique flavours.
Ethiopian natural processing traditionally involves drying cherries in a thin layer on raised beds, using either indirect or direct sunlight. For the supernatural process, hand-picked cherries are measured for ripeness (Brix) and then spread thickly on raised drying racks with plastic lining. These cherries are then rolled up (like a burrito) and fermented for a set time. This fermentation allows some oxygen in, unlike a completely sealed process. After fermentation, the coffee is shade-dried in a thick layer.
The exact method is a secret that varies by washing station. They might change fermentation time, cherry amount, or drying layer thickness. Careful monitoring is crucial to avoid over-fermenting, mold, and ensure consistent results. Workers track temperature, Brix levels, and moisture content, making adjustments to airflow and temperature as needed.
Once the cherries reach the ideal moisture level (around 12.5%), they're stored in a cool place before further processing (removing hulls, sorting by size and quality, handpicking any imperfections, and bagging for export).
