Ethiopia Guji Kello Raro 2nd Birthday Edition

When it came time to select a coffee to celebrate our second birthday, we knew we had to find something truly exceptional. Out of all the coffees we cupped at the start of summer, one stood out from the rest: the Ethiopia Guji Kello Raro. This coffee isn't just a mysterious Heirloom varietal; it's a testament to the dedication and craftsmanship of the producers who brought it to life. Achieving a coveted Grade 1 classification and a whopping SCA score of 87.5, this is a coffee experience not to be missed. Here at FVR we think this is best enjoyed as a pourover or filter coffee, it simply brings out the most in those fruity and floral flavours. Espresso is achievable too and creates a very heady and perfumed shot but expect a bit of a challenge dialling it in as we roast this slightly on the lighter side and it's reasonably dense.

The Story of a Remarkable Coffee

The Natural Guji Kello Raro coffee is a testament to meticulous care, from cultivation to export. It all begins in the Kello Raro district of Uraga, nestled within Ethiopia's renowned Guji Zone. Here, 230 smallholder producers cultivate this coffee at altitudes ranging from 1,900 to 2,250 meters above sea level in fertile red-brown soil.

The harvest period from November to January is a crucial time. Cherries are picked at their peak ripeness and delivered to the wet mill, owned by SNAP Specialty Coffee. A dedicated team of women meticulously sorts the cherries, ensuring only the highest quality beans continue on the journey. Following sorting, the cherries are carefully sun-dried on raised beds for 17 days, a process strictly supervised by the dry mill manager. After drying, the coffee cherries rest for two months in a warehouse, allowing their flavours to develop and deepen before being milled and transported to Addis Ababa for final export preparation.

Tasting the Terroir

The natural process method used for this coffee highlights a vibrant and fruity cup profile. With a cup score of 87.5, you can expect a delightful burst of tropical and red fruit notes. Prominent flavours of mango, cherry, and strawberry take center stage, creating a lively and unforgettable taste. A delicate hint of peach tea adds a layer of complexity, while a velvety milk chocolate finish provides a rich and comforting balance. This coffee is a true reflection of the unique terroir and dedicated craftsmanship of the Uraga region, and we are proud to share it with you for our second birthday celebration.