Ethiopia - Wete Ambela
Nuances: Cherry, Pomegranate, Red Apple
Farm: Local smallholders
Provenence: Ethiopia
Elevation: 1750 masl
Process: Natural
Variety: Mixed local vafrieties
Ethiopia - Wete Ambela is a startup founded in 2018 that benefited from the ease of the ECX regulation. The changes in ECX rules in 2017 made it relatively easier to obtain an export license that allowed direct trade under the system. The first Cup of Excellence competition was held in 2020 that excited buyers from all over the world, which led many producers and suppliers to start their own export businesses.
The number of independent producers has increased in Ethiopia. While the majority of Ethiopian coffee is produced in large lots in several hundred bags, many more will likely be labeled clearly with the name of the farm or producer attached, as is the case in Central America, and there will be more diversity in the processing methods and the variety of coffees.
Mekuria, one of the founders, has solid connections among smallholders and access to quality coffee over the years. There is one thing that he has always valued to build a trusting relationship with producers. One of the most important things he has done to build trust with producers; he created a good living environment for the smallholders.
Ideal for Filter