Blind Assessment: Delicate, high-toned, elegantly fruit-driven. Wild strawberry, tangerine zest, cocoa nib, sandalwood, thyme in aroma and cup. Bright, sweetly tart structure with juicy acidity; silky-smooth, lilting mouthfeel. The resonant finish is saturated with flavor notes from aroma and cup in harmonious balance.

Notes: Certified organic and fair trade. Southern Ethiopia coffees like this one are largely produced from distinctive indigenous Ethiopian landrace varieties of Arabica long grown in the region. This is a dry-processed or “natural” version, meaning the beans were dried inside the fruit rather than after the fruit has been removed, as is the case with wet-processed or “washed” coffees. Souvenir Coffee, based in Berkeley, California goes by the motto, “People first, then coffee.” Visit www.souvenir-coffee.com for more information.

The Bottom Line: An exceptionally clean, balanced natural-processed Ethiopia cup: integrated berry and citrus notes out front with cocoa undertones and a hint of sweet herb.

Click here for more information about coffees from Ethiopia.