ETHIOPIA Hamasho

A floral and fruity high-elevation natural from Ethiopia's Sidama region.

Producer: Asefa Dukamo | Daye Bensa Coffee

Washing Station: Hamasho Station

Variety: JARC Selection 74158

Process: Natural

Region: Sidama

Elevation: 2260-2360m

Harvest: Oct 2024 - Jan 2025

Hamasho washing station is in Ethiopia’s Sidama region - an area celebrated for colourful, fruit-forward coffees shaped by altitude, biodiversity and traditional farming practices. The coffee is grown at a very high elevation of 2300m, allowing cherries to develop slowly and concentrate their natural sugars. The variety, JARC 74158, comes from Ethiopia’s Jimma Agricultural Research Centre, known for selecting resilient, high-performing cultivars with strong cup quality.

After selective handpicking, the coffee cherries are sorted and dried as whole fruit on raised beds, turned regularly to prevent over-fermentation. The slow 12-15 day drying period enhances sweetness, body and the distinctive berry and floral character that natural Sidama coffees are known for.

Asefa Dukamo, who grew up in a coffee-farming family, began his foray into the coffee industry by supplying cherries to nearby washing stations. Recognizing the logistical challenges faced by local farmers, he established his own washing station in 1997, significantly reducing travel time for coffee producers in the region. Today, his company Daye Bensa operates multiple washing stations and dry mills, fostering community development and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

We are very happy to have Hamasho back for a second year running. An exceptional, expressive natural coffee worth caffeinating with!