Ethiopia is widely regarded as the birthplace of coffee cultivation, a land where ancient coffee forests still thrive and legend traces the discovery of coffee back to a goatherd named Kaldi. The country is home to a dazzling array of indigenous, or "landrace," coffee varieties, each offering unique flavor potential rooted in centuries of natural evolution. Ethiopian coffee is celebrated for two radically distinct processing styles that yield vastly different taste experiences. Natural (dry-processed) coffees are often bursting with flavors of ripe berries, chocolate, and fresh bread, offering a fruit-forward and full-bodied cup. In contrast, washed (wet-processed) Ethiopian coffees tend to be bright and clean, showcasing elegant notes of citrus, florals, and black tea. This remarkable diversity makes Ethiopia a cornerstone of specialty coffee and a constant source of discovery for coffee lovers. For those seeking a decaffeinated experience without sacrificing flavor, we offer Ethiopian selections that are decaffeinated using the Swiss Water Process—a gentle, chemical-free method that uses water, temperature, and time to remove caffeine while preserving the coffee’s distinctive origin characteristics. Whether caffeinated or decaf, Ethiopian coffee offers an unmatched sensory journey from the highlands of East Africa.
ROAST LEVEL Light
REGION + ELEVATION Ethiopia | 1700-2000 m
PROCESSING Dry-processed (Natural)
VARIETY Forest soil, volcanic red
1. What is Sidamo coffee?
Sidamo coffee is produced in Sidamo province in southern Ethiopia, which is one of the country's premier coffee-growing areas. Its citrus-like brightness, floral, and silky body, Sidamo beans are often prized for the sweetness and brightness of their cup.
2. Is your Ethiopia Sidamo coffee decaffeinated?
Yes—our Ethiopia Sidamo is a decaf coffee, processed using a chemical-free method that preserves the integrity and flavor of the beans. You’ll still experience the signature notes of Sidamo—floral aromatics, stone fruit, and chocolate—without the caffeine.
3. How is Ethiopian Sidamo coffee different from other origins?
Ethiopian Sidamo coffee is light bodied with bright acidity and floral-fruit taste, as opposed to heavier, earthy coffees from regions like Sumatra or chocolate-laden Central American beans. It's perfect for those who value a refined and complex cup.
4. Are your Sidamo coffee beanssingle origin?
Yes. Our decaf Sidamo coffee comes from a single region of Ethiopia, which enables traceability and true representation of the unique terroir of Sidamo. We buy directly from our partners who are dedicated to ethical sourcing and quality from the start.