We are proud to showcase this delightful anaerobic single origin, which has been sourced from smallholder farms in the highlands of West Guji, Hambella district in Ethiopia, and processed at the Buku Sayisa Washing Station. 

The Region

Grown at 2200-2250 meters above sea level in the rich soils of Hambella, within the Guji zone, this coffee showcases heirloom landrace varieties nurtured by smallholder farmers. Today, Guji farmers continue to practice traditional agricultural methods, intercropping coffee with crops like maize, barley, wheat and beans, all whilst cultivating indigenous coffee varieties that thrive in the region’s fertile soil.

The Washing Station

Buku Sayisa is tied to deep cultural coffee traditions. The Oromo people of Guji, who have long inhabited the area, tell the legend of the sky god Waaqa. It was Waaga’s tears that were shed in mourning for a servant’s unjust death that gave rise to the coffee plant. Henceforth, coffee has played a vital role in Guji-Oromo culture since at least the 10th century, with coffee beans historically mixed with fats to provide energy during long journeys. 

Located in one of Ethiopia’s highest coffee-growing regions, the area surrounding the Buku Sayisa washing station yields small, dense beans with complex flavour profiles. At the station, extended fermentation is used to enhance these natural characteristics, resulting in a cup that is sweet, nuanced, and perfectly balanced.

The Process

Crafted with great care from start to finish, this single origin coffee begins with hand-selected cherries chosen only when their natural sweetness reaches the desired sugar content (above 18 brix). After  sorting to remove any underripe fruit, the cherries are floated to ensure only the densest, highest-quality ones remain. They then undergo a 96-hour anaerobic fermentation - a process that deepens the flavour complexity and highlights the bean’s natural notes. Finally, the cherries are slowly dried on shaded beds for around 20 days, allowing the flavours to develop into a cup that’s rich, balanced, and distinctly expressive of its origin.

Featuring tasting notes of raspberry, purple grape and dark chocolate, this is an exceptional coffee for those who love a richly aromatic filter style coffee, or a bold option for single espresso.