Tried and true, this natural Ethiopia coffee from the Chelbessa washing station in Yirgacheffe was a great example of why we love natural coffees from Ethiopia: floral and fruit-forward without being overwhelming in the cup.

Chelbessa is one of the largest towns in Gedeb, and this washing station receives coffees from nearly 500 farmers. Producers in Gedeb have farmed coffee for generations on family farms and are committed to using chemical-free cultivation methods. Coffee is delivered to Chelbessa the day it is harvested, sorted for ripeness and quality, then rinsed clean of dirt. The cherries are spread on raised drying beds or tables and rotated constantly throughout drying. Drying can take an average of 8–25 days, depending on the weather.

This lovely coffee was balanced, with a cleanliness reminiscent of a washed coffee. In the cup, we tasted Fruity Pebbles, florals, and sweet orange marmalade.