Banko Chelchele

Banko Chelchele

Producer – Smallholder farmers in the Banko Chelchele community

Location – Gedeb, Gedeo - Yirgacheffe

Farm – Various smallholder farms

Variety – 74112-74110

Altitude – 1900-2300 MASL

Process – Natural

Tasting Notes – Blueberry, Black Tea, Jasmine

Roasted For – Filter

About

Some of the highest growing elevations for coffee in the world can be found in the communities of the Gedeb woreda (district) of South Ethiopia. One of these communities in this dense coffee growing corner of Gedeb is Banko Chelchele; many of the farms and washing stations are named after the local municipality, such as this coffee, Banko Chelchele.

Coffee farming is the primary source of income for many families in the community of Chelchele. The community come together during harvest season to assist with cherry picking; coffee is not only their income source but also a symbol of unity, shared purpose, and togetherness.

The knowledge and expertise required to grow and harvest coffee to the high standards of this community have been passed down through generations; meticulous care and attention to detail is of utmost importance to ensure only the best cherries are selected. Once picked and sorted, the cherries are sun dried on raised beds and frequently turned for even drying for 2-4 weeks, until optimal moisture content is reached. The dried cherries are then rested in a cool room for a few weeks, before being hulled to remove the outer skin and pulp, then milled to remove the parchment layer.

This natural processing method brings out complex and fruity characteristics of the coffee, and is considered to be one of the most traditional and authentic methods of coffee processing in Ethiopia. Though Gedeb technically sits within the Sidama region, Yirga Chefe has been named as another small region within this area due it being highly regarded as one of the top coffee growing regions of Ethiopia and the world.

The varieties

Varieties 74110 and 74112 were both developed by Jimma Agricultural Research Center (JARC) which was established in 1967 and is responsible for developing many of Ethiopia’s outstanding coffee varieties. The centre also provides training for farmers, teaching them about correct cultivation methods. Both varieties this coffee is made up of were developed from trees in the Metu-Bishari forest in the Oromia region of Ethiopia. They are resistant to disease and have high yields, producing small cherries and leaves.

Filter Recipe

This is a good starting point for all of our Filter coffees. Adjust Accordingly to your own preference.

Ground Coffee: 20g

Brewed Weight: 320g

Contact Time: 2:30

Recommended Brewing Age

12 – 30 Days after roast date