The Great Tasting Ethiopian Coffee That You Probably Don't Know About

Have you ever tasted Harrar Coffee?

Maybe you have, or this could be the first time you have heard about Harrar coffee.

Harrar coffee is named after the Harrar region that lies in Ethiopia's Eastern Highlands. The region is surrounded by a centuries-old defensive wall that has several large gates, including Duke's Gate.

Harrar coffee

Harrar is one of the main coffee-growing regions in Ethiopia. Coffee grown at Harrar has a reputation for producing distinctive wild-varietal Arabica considered to be one of the best coffees in the world. The reputation of Harrar is in its taste- highly regarded for its spicy and almost wine-like texture and taste.

Processing

Coffee in Harrar is grown at an elevation of 1510 – 2120 meters above sea level. The high altitude is responsible for its sweet taste and delicious aroma. At high altitudes, the coffee plant has better drainage which signifies less water in the coffee fruit which ensures the natural flavors and tastes are not diluted. 

Harrar coffee is also dry processed meaning that after harvesting, the coffee fruit is left to dry in the sun. Once the fruit has dried, it is peeled away leaving the exposed coffee bean. The dry processing imparts the flavors of the fruit into the bean itself and is a crucial aspect of the overall taste.

 Tasting notes

Along with the fruity notes, Harrar has a notable floral taste with hints of jasmine in the finish. You can also expect to taste hints of blueberries and apricot.

Because of the natural processing, Harrar Coffee exhibits a complex, wild fruitiness that is unmistakable. The intense aromatics make it a popular coffee choice for espresso blends.

Serving Harrar

Ethiopian Harrar can be enjoyed hot or iced. Coffee lovers will note that Harrar is a great coffee to pair with a variety of foods. A berry-based fruit salad goes very will Harrar as do fruitcakes and pies.

Accompaniment

Oatmeal with raisins will really bring out the fruit flavors of Harrar. 

Buying Harrar beans

Coffee lovers are advised to buy fresh roasted whole beans. This ensures the coffee arrives while still at peak flavor.