Ethiopia is the birthplace of coffee, and no two cups from this country are the same. Even within this historic origin, microclimates, elevation, and processing methods create dramatic differences in the cup. Today, we’re contrasting two distinctive Ethiopian coffees: our Sunburst Berry – Guji Ethiopian and our Vanilla Sky – Idido Ethiopian. Though they may share national roots, these coffees tell two very different stories.
1. The Regions: Guji vs. Yirgacheffe
Guji: Wild and Fruity
Guji, a subregion of Oromia in southern Ethiopia, borders Sidama and Yirgacheffe but has a character all its own. The Uraga district, where our Sunburst Berry is grown, lies at elevations reaching 2,200 meters above sea level. Its rich volcanic soil, wild heirloom varieties, and abundant rainfall provide ideal conditions for a fruit-forward, intense cup. Guji coffees are often natural processed, sun-dried with the fruit still on the bean, which enhances their boldness and complexity.
Yirgacheffe: Floral Elegance
Further west, in the Gedeo Zone of Yirgacheffe, lies Gedeb, a high-elevation area known for producing some of the most delicate and floral coffees in the world. The Vanilla Sky – Idido lot hails from this region and, as is typical, is washed processed. This method highlights brightness and clarity by removing the fruit before drying. The terroir of Gedeb, paired with meticulous washing station practices, gives these coffees a tea-like, citrusy profile.
2. Tasting Notes: Fruit Bomb vs. Floral Fun
Sunburst Berry – Guji Ethiopian
- Process: Natural
- Tasting Notes: Berry, Kiwi, Hibiscus
This coffee is an all-out celebration of fruit. The natural process boosts berry notes and fermenty undertones. Its full body and dessert-like profile make it ideal for those who prefer vibrant and unrestrained flavors. Sweet, juicy, and softly tart, this tropical cup feels like summer!
Vanilla Sky – Idido Ethiopian
- Process: Washed
- Tasting Notes: Lemon, Vanilla, Rose
In contrast, this Yirgacheffe shines with refined elegance. It’s clean, bright, and aromatic — a coffee that dances on the palate with floral complexity and citrus brightness. Candied lemon, floral vanilla, and rich rose come together, and the finish is floral sweetness with a subtle, creamy warmth.
3. Why Region Matters
Ethiopia’s coffee varieties are often wild and genetically diverse, but altitude, soil composition, and microclimate play just as crucial a role as the processing method. Here’s how:
- Altitude: Both coffees are high-grown, but the higher elevations in Guji Uraga tend to prolong cherry maturation, building intense sugars and layered fruit notes.
- Soil: Guji’s deep red volcanic soil enhances mineral uptake, contributing to rich body and bold fruit.
- Climate: Gedeb’s cooler, stable climate creates the ideal conditions for clean washed coffees with floral and citrus profiles.
- Processing: Natural processed coffees have deep body and jammy flavors, while washed coffees preserve crisp acidity and floral aromatics.
Final Thoughts
While both coffees showcase Ethiopia’s unmatched complexity, your preference might depend on your palate:
- Craving bold, fruity, dessert-like flavors? Sunburst Berry – Guji is your match.
- Looking for elegance, clarity, and floral brightness? Vanilla Sky – Idido will charm your cup.