Ethiopia Sakaro Wine Process

This lot follows suit with the wave of groups now experimenting with various methods of anaerobic processing. It follows all the same steps as a typical naturally processed coffee, except after the coffee is floated, it is placed into special plastic bags/canisters, flushed with carbon dioxide and nitrogen gas, and monitored over 3-7 days until fermented adequately (this varies based on mucilage content and environmental conditions). Once the cherries reach the desired pH and color, they are removed from the bags and transferred to drying tables to complete the process.

This technique creates an oxygen-free environment that triggers an in-cherry intracellular fermentation — a technique borrowed from winemaking known as carbonic maceration

Worka Sakaro Washing Station is located in the Gedio Zone. The washing station works with over 400 smallholder farmers in the region. These farmers grow their coffee on the steep mountain slopes in the shade of Birbira, Corsica Africana, and Ensete Ventricosum trees. The coffee is picked when the cherries are ripe and then dried on raised beds for 18 to 21 days. Once the coffee is dried it is then milled to remove the husks and stored in a local warehouse before being transported for final processing before shipment.

This coffee is ver versatile and amazing as a pour over, aeropress, french press, batch brew, and espresso.

Because carbonic maceration dramatically alters the cell structure of the bean, these types of coffees are relatively more soluble. To prevent over-extraction and a harsh, bitter, or overly boozy cup—we recommend experimenting with:

• Lower Water Temperature: Instead of the standard 205°F (96°C), brew between 195°F to 200°F (90°C to 93°C). Cooler water keeps the intense, volatile fruit and alcohol notes clear and crisp without extracting heavy, bitter compounds.
• Coarsen Your Grind. You may choose to you a larger amount of coffee to compensate for less resistance.
• Simplify Pours. Avoid aggressive agitation or excessive stirring of the bed.