Organic Ethiopia Shanta Wene Natural
Region: Sidama, Ethiopia
Varietal: Kurume
Altitude: 1900-2100m
Processing: Full natural and dried on raised beds in the sun
Roast: Light
Tasting notes: Juicy body, lively acidity, caramel, raspberry
Shanta Wene is a small community of eastern Sidama, where 1000 farmers deliver cherry to the Testi Ayla washing station. The farmers average two hectares each and the land here has some of the highest elevations of all Sidama. Testi Ayla is owned by Testi Coffee PLC and operated by Faysel Yonis. The Sidama region of Ethiopia has a robust collection of cooperatives, but this washing station is independently owned. Testi Ayla produces both washed and natural coffee of the highest quality. The naturals take longer here to dry due to nightly temperature drops and raised humidity, slowing dehydration. It is not often one see’s a Grade 1 Sidama natural, as many cherries are either washed, or a lower grade dry-process. It is not easy being an independent operator either, as there is an immense amount of competition, and the private company may not have as easy access to funds as in a larger union when cherry prices go high. The success of Testi Ayla can be attributed to the standout quality of production, as well as their commitment to their community, and business partners; to win the business of farmers and buyers alike for the long term.
