Ethiopia - Yaye Odakko Project / Variety 74158 / Natural SP (Green Coffee) 1KG

This naturally processed Ethiopian lot comes from Yaye Washing Station in the Sidama region and is produced as part of the Odakko Project — an initiative bringing together approximately 50 smallholder farmers from surrounding villages.

Established in 2021, Yaye is a relatively young washing station with a strong focus on careful cherry selection, clean processing and experimentation. The project also extends beyond coffee production, with premiums generated through these coffees contributing to local education initiatives within the surrounding communities.

Unlike many Ethiopian lots represented under the broader heirloom classification, this coffee is composed entirely of 74158, a variety selected by the Jimma Agricultural Research Center in 1974. Originally developed for its resilience and adaptability, 74158 has become one of Ethiopia's important modern selections and, when grown at high elevation, is capable of producing exceptional sweetness, clarity and complexity.

Here, the coffee is grown at elevations reaching approximately 2,300 metres above sea level. The cooler conditions slow cherry maturation, allowing sugars and flavour precursors to develop gradually before harvest.

Yaye's Special Prep natural process begins with careful cherry selection, targeting approximately 90% perfectly ripe fruit alongside a small proportion of overripe cherries to contribute additional sweetness and depth. After sorting and flotation, the whole cherries are slowly dried on raised beds under shade for up to 28 days.

This extended, controlled drying period is designed to encourage flavour development while maintaining stability and clarity in the seed — producing a natural profile that is expressive without becoming overly fermentative.

Yaye 74158 offers a refined take on naturally processed Ethiopian coffee. Expect concentrated red fruit and cooked berry characteristics supported by caramel-like sweetness, gentle wine-like acidity and subtle chocolate depth. Rich and expressive, but with enough structure and clarity to give the roaster plenty of room to explore.

Expected flavour profile: Cooked berries, red fruit jam, caramel and chocolate.