Varietal

Heirloom

Processing

Anaerobic Fermentation

Tasting Notes

Watermelon
Blueberry muffin
Honeydew melon

Washing Station

Solena Washing Starion, West Arsi, Ethiopia

Bale Mountain Farm is located in Arsi, in the Bale Mountains belt. This region forms the SE of the Ethiopian Highlands, just below 3,000 masl. The farm itself is located at 1,800 - 2,100 masl and employs 350 staff at the Dry MiIl and nearby Solena Washing Station. It is an idyllic location, extremely hard to reach by road and surrounded by two large rivers that
flow to the Wabe Shebelle River and Forest Mountains. The coffee collected from the farm is notably dense and uniform, consistently delivering a high-quality cup profile. Bale Mountain farm is also engaged in social responsibility activities like local road construction, nursery establishment and free distribution of coffee seedlings, school building and
financial support during the off season. The anaerobic fermentation in this lot highlights the acidity and fruit notes usually found in Bale Mountain coffees. It was a standout on the cupping table due to the fresh melon notes and similarity to blueberry muffins.

In Ethiopia, anaerobic coffee processing has gained popularity for enhancing flavour
complexity. Typically associated with natural and sun-dried coffees, anaerobic processing
involves limiting oxygen exposure during fermentation, allowing for distinct fermentation
profiles. Typically lasting up to 48 hours, this style of processing can create distinctive taste profiles.
While anaerobic processing is more commonly associated with countries like Costa Rica or Colombia, its adoption in Ethiopia reflects a growing trend toward experimenting with
processing methods to highlight the diverse flavours inherent in Ethiopian coffee varieties. As Ethiopian coffee continues to evolve, anaerobic processing offers another avenue for coffee enthusiasts to experience the rich and complex taste profiles associated with this coffee origin.

Bale Mountain in Ethiopia, part of the birthplace of Arabica coffee, boasts a diverse range of coffee varietals, mainly heirloom types unique to Ethiopia. The intricate genetic diversity in this region makes it challenging to specify particular varietals. Local farmers employ traditional cultivation methods, often relying on ancient heirloom varieties adapted to the area's microclimates. These heirlooms are prized for their distinctive floral, fruity, and wine-like flavour notes. Although specific varietals may be challenging
to identify due to the prevalence of heirloom and indigenous types, Bale Mountain coffee is celebrated for its exceptional quality, vibrant flavours, and unique Ethiopian characteristics shaped by altitude, soil conditions, and traditional farming practices.