Yirg-Z is produced by Biru Bekele in the Chito District of the Yirgacheffe region of SNNPR. The coffee is grown at an elevation of 1904 meters in a sub-tropical climate. It features heirloom coffee varieties and is processed using the washed method, with a dry time of 8-10 days. The harvest period for this coffee is between November and January, and it is processed at the Biru Bekele wet mill.
The washed processing method, also known as wet processing, is one of the most common methods used in coffee production. Ripe coffee cherries are selectively handpicked, pulped to remove the outer skin, and left to ferment in water tanks for 12-48 hours. After fermentation, the beans are washed to remove any remaining mucilage and dried for 8-10 days. Once dried, the beans are hulled, sorted, and graded before being bagged and shipped. This method results in clean, bright flavors by removing much of the fruit's outer layers, allowing the inherent characteristics of the coffee beans to shine through.
Yirgacheffe is renowned for its coffee production, with a rich history and reputation for high-quality beans. The region's unique climate and elevation contribute to the distinctive characteristics of its coffee. The combination of traditional farming methods and meticulous processing ensures that Yirg-Z coffee maintains its exceptional quality. The "Z" in Yirg-Z stands for zero defects, indicating that the coffee beans are meticulously sorted to eliminate any green bean defects, which are imperfections that can negatively impact the flavor and quality of the coffee.
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