Uraga Oro, Filter - Ethiopia

The Uraga washing station receives cherries from farmers in the surrounding area. The station is located in Guji, a coffee-growing region that was once part of Yirgacheffe but whose microclimate produces coffee so unique that it has been designated as its own coffee-growing region.

The agricultural methods of the region remain largely traditional. Farmers in Guji usually intercrop their coffee plants with other food crops. This method is common among smallholders because it maximizes land use and provides food for their families.

In addition to traditionally intercropping, most farms are also organic by default. Farmers in Guji typically use very little, if any, fertilizers or pesticides. Most of the farm work is done manually by the immediate family.

To take advantage of the beautiful climate, the Uraga washing station offers training to help farmers produce better quality cherries. The training covers the procedures for harvesting and transporting cherries.

Farmers selectively pick ripe cherries and deliver them to the station. At intake, employees visually inspect the cherries and only accept fully ripe cherries for anaerobic fermentation. The selected cherries are pulped and placed in airtight vats. ORO yeast specially formulated for coffee fermentation is added. Coffee and yeast ferment anaerobically for 18 to 24 hours.

After fermentation, the coffee is washed with clean water and left to dry on raised beds. Workers frequently rake parchment to ensure even drying. It takes about 2 to 3 weeks for the parchment to dry.

• Region: Guji
• Country: Ethiopia
• Elevation: 1,925 - 1,945 masl
• Variety: JARC, Heirloom
• Process: Natural anaerobic with Oro yeasts