ETIOPIA Benti Nenka

TECHNICAL SHEET

Farm: Benti Nenka

Cup Score: 87.5

Flavor Notes: Strawberry, mango, honey sweetness

Altitude: 1900–2200 MASL

Process: Natural

Origin: Benti Nenka, Guji, Hambela

Variety: Heirloom

Suggested for espresso and filter

Coffee Story

Located in the village of Benti Nenka, in the Hambela Wamena area of Guji, the Guduba Wet Mill processes coffee from 589 smallholder farmers, each managing plots ranging from 1 to 2 hectares. Founded in 2012, the mill sits at an altitude between 1,900 and 2,170 meters, contributing to the unique quality of its coffee.

The farmers in Guji follow traditional agricultural practices, often intercropping coffee with other food crops to optimize land use. These farms are, by nature, organic, with minimal use of fertilizers or pesticides. Most farm work, including harvesting, is done manually due to the small size of the farms.

The coffee cherries are handpicked and delivered to the washing station, where they are sorted to remove underripe fruit. The coffee is then moved to the drying area.

Drying takes place on raised beds over a period of 16–20 days, during which the coffee is continuously turned to ensure even drying. Throughout this time, the beans are protected from direct heat and moisture, being covered during the hottest hours of the day and at night.

Botanical Variety

The Heirloom botanical variety represents a mix of traditional and indigenous Ethiopian coffee varieties. These coffees originate from an extraordinary genetic diversity that has evolved naturally in Ethiopia’s forests, the birthplace of the coffee plant. Heirloom stands out for its complex and unique aromatic profile, with floral, fruity, and spicy notes often considered among the finest in the world. Grown in small plots by local farmers, this variety reflects the terroir, agricultural traditions, and biodiversity of its region.

Origin

Coffees from the Guji Zone, located in Ethiopia’s Oromia region in the south of the country, are renowned for their exceptional quality thanks to fertile soils, high altitudes (1800–2200 meters), and ideal climate. Guji coffees are distinguished by their unmistakable flavor profile, often dominated by ripe fruit, citrus, and honey notes, accompanied by vibrant acidity and a velvety mouthfeel. The natural processing method, common in the area, further enhances the sweetness and complexity of these coffees, making them some of the most sought-after by specialty coffee enthusiasts.