Blitzen - Yirgacheffe - Ethiopia - Medium Light Roast

Ethiopia Yirgacheffe Natural Hirut – Coffee

Varietal Expression

Grown at 1,900–2,200 meters above sea level in the Yirgacheffe district of Ethiopia’s Gedeo Zone, this lot comes from 232 smallholder farmers collaborating at the Hirut Birhanu Processing Station, named for one of its founding sisters. The region’s fertile vertisol soils and ancestral heirloom varieties deliver a truly terroir-driven cup.

Processing & Production

This coffee undergoes natural processing, where sun-dried cherries are rotated by hand on raised beds, shaded strategically to maintain even drying. This meticulous process unfolds over 10–20 days, preserving the fruit’s inherent sweetness and complexity.

Notes

🍓 Strawberry
🍫 Chocolate
🍯 Honey

Stewardship & Community Impact

Owned and operated by sisters Hirut and Mahder Berhanu, the Hirut Birhanu Processing Station powers regional growth—during harvest, it employs over 400 people, 95% of whom are women. The station supports its community through healthcare, staff lending programs, housing for seasonal workers, and even pioneering energy solutions. Projects include converting parchment into pressed firewood and installing local electric infrastructure.

Naming

This coffee is named after the beloved Blitzen, a Stevens family dog. Blitzen was rescued by us in June of 2022, shortly after moving to Colorado. Blitzen is an absolute lover and is known for his open, affectionate welcome into the home for any guest.