Living in a world with market volatility and global trade uncertainties has created a challenging environment. In the midst of this unpredictability, Joe Borg takes a moment to shift gears and focus on something that brings everyone pure joy—the incredible coffee arriving from Ethiopia and Kenya.

Exploring the Flavors of Ethiopia & Kenya: What’s Brewing this Winter and Spring?

Why do I have such a deep appreciation for these coffees? Well, it all comes down to the exceptional, unique flavors they bring to the cup. From the bright notes of blueberries and tropical fruits to the lively, mouth-puckering notes of grapefruit, there’s a rich, dynamic range of flavors that can only be found in coffees from these regions. Every sip offers a new experience, and that’s what makes them to special to me.

Coffee from Ethiopia: A Flavorful Experience

As you may know, we recently returned from Ethiopia in early December 2024. When we came back, we were buzzing with excitement. At origin, we had the chance to experience the harvest firsthand. However, we also knew we were in for an early arrival of washed and natural processed coffees. Thanks to an earlier harvest and less shipping congestion (finally!), we’re thrilled to announce that those coffees will be making their way to us soon.

We’re all familiar with washed coffees from washing stations like Kochere and Konga in renowned Yirgacheffe and the Gera Estate in Djimma. These coffees are some of the most consistent we’ve seen in many years. They’re showcasing the classic grade 2 qualities you’d expect, with some extra sweetness—think bright, juicy flavors like orange and peach. A real treat!

But, that’s not all. We also have some exciting natural processed coffees in the works. Since they require a bit more resting time on the raised beds, they’ll arrive about 1–2 months later than the washed coffees. Depending on the quality, these coffees are either from lower altitude areas (grades 3 and 4) or higher altitudes (grades 1 and 2). After cupping the pre-shipment samples, I can confidently say that the flavors are bursting with complex fruit notes and intense juiciness.

Here’s a quick look at what’s coming:

Washed Coffee from Ethiopia (Late March ETA)

58394: Ethiopia Washed GERA Estate
58390: Ethiopia Washed Yirgacheffe Konga
58388: Ethiopia Washed Yirgacheffe Kochere

Natural Coffee from Ethiopia (April/May ETA)

58395: Ethiopia Natural Sidamo Guji (GR4)
58484: Ethiopia Natural Gera Estate G1
58475: Ethiopia Natural Sidamo Guji Shakiso G1
58478: Ethiopia Natural Sidamo Shantawene G1
58486: Ethiopia Natural Kembata G1
58489: Ethiopia Natural Anaerobic Gera Estate GR1

Organic & Fair Trade Offerings (April–June ETA)

58768: Organic Ethiopia Washed Sidamo Nura Korate G2 Fair Trade
58763: Organic Ethiopia Washed Yirgacheffe Gelana Abaya G2
58781: Organic Ethiopia Natural Sidamo Guji G4

As you can see, everything is lining up to arrive about a month earlier this year, which is a nice relief after the challenges we’ve recently faced. The earlier harvest, combined with smoother logistics, means we’re in for a great spring of freshly roasted coffee from Ethiopia!

Coffee from Kenya: A Main Crop Worth the Wait

Before our trip to Ethiopia, we had the chance to stop over in Kenya. We arrived while early auctions for the main crop were taking place. These auctions often showcase some of the finest coffees of the year, and we’re excited to see the incredible results from this year’s harvest. After cupping numerous coffees, it’s clear that Kenya’s coffees are going to be something special.

We’re partnering with strong, reliable suppliers in Kenya with direct access to specific washing stations. This allows us to offer a diverse range of coffees, from single-origin gems to the perfect blender coffees. These offerings really set the bar for East African specialty coffee, and we can’t wait for them to land mid-March.

What’s coming from Kenya in the next few weeks?

You’ll see main crop coffees from specific washing stations, each offering a distinctive profile thanks to traceability to the cooperative societies. We’ll offer a wide range of AAs, ABs, and Peaberries.

Stay tuned for more exciting news about these upcoming arrivals in the coming weeks!

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