C72: 

Farm/Producer: Miriga Village, Murgo Factory

Region: Ethiopia, Bensa, Sidama

Process: Washed

Altitude: 2400 - 2490 masl

Variety: 74158

Cup Profile: Grapefruit, Stone Fruits, Maple Syrup

Background info

We're excited to continue our relationship with Alo Coffee for a second consecutive year. After tasting through this season's offerings, the Ethiopia Miriga Village Washed stood out for its balance, clarity and the way it showcases everything we love about washed Ethiopian coffees. It's a coffee that's approachable yet expressive, making it just as enjoyable as a daily brew as it is something to slow down and appreciate.

Behind Alo Coffee are Tamiru Tadesse and his wife, Messi, who have quickly become some of Ethiopia's most respected coffee producers. Their first-ever Cup of Excellence entry in 2021 took first place, immediately putting Alo Coffee on the world stage. Since then, they've continued to invest in quality, expanding their network of washing stations while working closely with hundreds of smallholder farmers throughout Sidama. g

This lot comes from Miriga Village and is processed at the Murgo Washing Station. Ripe cherries are hand-picked and carefully sorted before being depulped. The coffee is then fermented in water to remove the remaining fruit before being thoroughly washed. Finally, it's dried slowly on raised African beds, where it's turned regularly to ensure even drying. This careful washing process highlights the coffee's natural clarity, sweetness, and vibrant citrus character.

In the cup, we found layers of stone fruits, think white peach and apricot, followed by bright citrus notes of grapefruit, mandarin, and bergamot. The washed process keeps the finish clean and crisp. With milk, those citrus notes soften and give way to a rich maple syrup sweetness, making for a surprisingly balanced and enjoyable milk coffee.