Ethiopia, Lalesa - Light rust

Black honey process from the impressive Lalesa washing station in Gedeb!

Lalesa is the largest washing and drying station in Gedeb, employing up to 250 seasonal workers during the harvest. It is run by Ephtah Specialty Coffee, a company focused on transparency, empowering women in the coffee chain, and supporting the local community. Right next to the station, they have established a nursery where female workers can leave their children and a space where women weave traditional baskets to sell.

The coffee comes from smallholder farmers in the area who grow coffee under the shade of Ensete trees. After harvest, the cherries are carefully sorted, floated (a process where freshly picked cherries are immersed in water to separate ripe fruit from damaged or unripe ones) and dried on raised beds for 12 to 15 days.

Ephtah supports its producer network through advance payments, quality-based premiums, and educational support for farmers’ children. Future investments include new water tanks, expanded drying capacity, and the cultivation of additional food crops to support the local economy.

This coffee comes from traditional Ethiopian heritage varieties – a diverse group of indigenous cultivars and locally selected varieties that have naturally adapted to the region over generations. Thriving in the high altitudes of Gedeb, these varieties are known for their complexity, floral aromas and juicy fruit character, all hallmarks of naturally processed Ethiopian coffees of the highest class.

• Score: 87/100
• Grows: 2150-2200 m.a.s.l.
• Arabica: Heirloom
• Process: Black honey
• Flavor notes of sweet, floral, hibiscus
• Last batch roasted 10/3-2026

We ship coffee that has rested up to three weeks after roasting when available, and roast to order when needed. We ship coffee within one week of ordering. Free shipping on orders over 699 SEK.