Ethiopia — Bensa Sidama

Single Farm Natural · Special Offering

This single-farm natural coffee comes from Bekele Ututtie, a meticulous producer working in the Bensa District of Sidama, and was secured through our close partnership with Catalyst Trade. Relationships like this make it possible to offer coffees that are not only exceptional in the cup, but deeply connected to the people behind them.

Bekele is known for his uncompromising attention to detail, particularly during drying. When processing naturals, cherries are never allowed to pile deeper than the width of a finger joint on raised beds—a seemingly small detail that plays a critical role in preserving clarity and preventing over-fermentation. Catalyst’s processing team works closely with Bekele throughout each stage, ensuring these standards are upheld from harvest through drying.

In addition to his daily work on the farm, Bekele has invested in continual learning. He was one of a small group of producers invited to attend an in-person conference near Lake Awassa, where farmers and processors gathered to discuss advanced processing techniques, financing, and long-term sustainability. These shared meals and conversations reflect the collaborative spirit behind coffees like this one.

Bekele’s experience and precision are evident in the cup. As a single-farm natural, this coffee offers a vivid, fruit-forward profile while remaining composed and articulate—an expression of both Sidama’s high elevations and the producer’s disciplined approach. Coffees of this caliber are produced in limited quantities and are best appreciated with intention.

This lot is offered as a Special Offering, highlighting some of the most distinctive and high-scoring coffees we source throughout the year.

Profile

• Roast: Light

• Region: Bensa District, Sidama

• Farm: Single Farm (Bekele Ututtie)

• Process: Natural

• Elevation: 2,250m

• Variety: 74158

• Cup: Passion Fruit, Blueberry, Sangria