About the coffee
- Country: Ethiopia
- Region: Gedeo, Yirgacheffe
- Farm / Producer: Halo Beriti / Mengeche Derso
- Altitude: 2250 m
- Variety: Heirloom
- Processing: Natural
High in the mountains of Gedeo in southern Ethiopia lies a 15-hectare farm owned by Mengeche Derso. Here, at an altitude reaching almost 2300 metres above sea level, Mengeche grows coffee with four of his twelve children, drawing on a lifetime of knowledge and experience.
Gedeo, part of the renowned Yirgacheffe region, has long been recognised as one of the most important origins in specialty coffee. High altitudes, fertile soils and a favourable microclimate allow coffee cherries to ripen slowly, developing a complex and intense flavour profile.
On his farm, Mengeche uses traditional growing methods and natural fertilisers made from plant residues and animal manure. His commitment to quality has been recognised by local institutions, and his coffee is part of the Single Farmer Project run by Cafe Imports. The initiative supports the traceability of coffees from individual Ethiopian producers, helping build more direct and transparent trading relationships.
After harvesting, ripe cherries undergo natural processing. Carefully selected cherries are dried whole on raised beds and turned regularly to ensure even drying. The process usually takes 8 to 25 days, depending on the weather, preserving the fruity sweetness and intense aroma characteristic of Ethiopian natural coffees.
In the cup, intense fruit aromas meet juicy acidity. The tropical sweetness of guava combines with deep notes of dried plum and the distinctive fruit character of elderberry, creating a complex, sweet and expressive profile.