We’ve stripped in our first Ethiopia arrivals of the year, and some of the earliest we’ve seen this season, available now out of Continental, NJ. The lots are superb in all the ways we look for from Ethiopia as an origin.
Our work at Red Fox hinges on the concept of moving coffee quickly. Those of you that have been with us for a few seasons know that we land our East African coffees as early or earlier than the others. After yet another season of setbacks in the Red Sea, and the Middle East at large, we were still fortunate to have a few containers strip into the warehouse last month.
Our first offerings of the season are classic washed coffees from the South. These are floral-driven, high-acid, ultrasweet coffees that you’ve grown to expect from us. We have three lots from two primetime subregions of the South—Uraga and Shakiso—on offer today.
We suspect these coffees will fly out of the warehouse considering their quality and early availability. If you’re looking to add a heavy dose of sparkle to your menus as you wait for your summer reinforcements from Central America and East Africa, this is your sign.
Full Flavor Notes from Joel in the Lab
Full flavor notes from Joel in the lab:
Aricha: Classic Yirgacheffe profile with brighter citrus reminiscent of lemon drop/lemon soda, vanilla-like florals and a clear sweetness similar to agave.
Jigesa: The cup is straightforward and crisp with a bigger stone fruit profile, honeyed sweetness, and articulate acidity. Like biting into a ripe peach and washing it down with blackberry soda. Nuanced acidity is complemented by tons of sweetness throughout the cup. Balanced but leaning towards a brighter profile.
Hadeso: At the beginning of cup, when the pour is hottest, this coffee presents subtle florals and tea-like qualities. As it cools the tea matures/sweetens into an oolong-like profile. A refreshing blend of honeydew melon and richness like whipped cream or custard. The cup continues to evolve as it cools, a very nice rollercoaster of complexity.
Balanced acidity, predominantly citric. Subtle florals, nice balanced sweetness. Plenty of lower tones to balance.
It’s looking like a great year for Ethiopia. More coming soon.
Interested in sourcing coffee with us? Reach out at info@redfoxcoffeemerchants.com. To learn more about our work, check out our journal and follow us on Instagram @redfoxcoffeemerchants.