Limu Region, Ethiopia | Kosage West Farm - Sounds of Nature Local Landrace Natural Process Flavors

Ethiopia Limu Region | Kossa Geshe Farm - Sounds of Nature Local Heirloom Natural Process Flavor

Sounds of Nature is a coffee variety distinct from the well-known Yirgacheffe and Sidamo. The Limu region has only begun to gain prominence in recent years. Limu is located southwest of Ethiopia's capital, with elevations ranging between 1300-1900m. To the south lies the Djimma region. The coffee bean we're recommending today, "Sounds of Nature," comes from the heirloom mixed varieties of the historic Kossa Geshe farm in Limu!

Kossa Geshe Farm is situated in the southern part of the Limu region at an elevation of 1900m. Such a remote location makes it very difficult to find, yet Sounds of Nature lived up to expectations and secured third place in that year's competition.

Limu belongs to Ethiopia's southwestern producing regions, geographically located between the two famous regions of Djimma and Nekempte (Lekempti). It is situated at high altitude, where native varieties are cultivated organically. Most coffees undergo washed processing. The difference between Limu washed beans and Sidamo or Yirgacheffe washed beans lies in its bright acidity accompanied by spicy notes, with hints of wine flavor being one of its characteristics. Coffee trees are shaded by ancient, lush forest trees, with natural mountain spring streams providing irrigation water. The D.S.T (Direct Specialty Trade) system is an irregular Ethiopian auction where only specialty coffees scoring above 80 points according to SCAA cupping standards can trade with foreign green bean suppliers under their own names. Most Limu coffees undergo washed processing. Unlike Sidamo washed beans or Yirgacheffe, Limu's acidity is bright yet accompanied by spicy notes, with varying degrees of wine-style flavor being another characteristic. Coffee cultivation varieties are Ethiopian heirlooms, with local small farmers planting using 100% organic methods. The soil is Vertisols type. Cultivation altitude ranges between 1850-1900 meters.

Limu has lower production, mainly exported to European and American markets. It was difficult to purchase domestically in the past but is very popular in Europe and America, with its reputation second only to Yirgacheffe. Limu's flavor profile differs from Sidamo and Yirgacheffe: its body is lighter, floral and citrus aromas are less pronounced than Yirgacheffe and Sidamo, yet it offers grassy and cocoa aromas, along with sandalwood notes. Limu Coffee is famous for its aromatic and wine-like flavors (spicy and winey flavor), highly favored in Europe and America. With good acidity and body, washed Limu coffee is also a favorite among specialty coffees. The beans are medium-sized, greenish-blue, and mostly round.

Although its reputation doesn't match Sidamo and Yirgacheffe, Limu still produces many excellent coffees. Most producers in this region are small-scale, though there are several state-owned large coffee plantations. The green beans are greenish-blue. Most Limu exports are G2 grade, with flavor similar to Yirgacheffe but with thinner viscosity. However, floral and fruit flavors are prominent, and the acidity is smoother than Yirgacheffe.

AFCA 2015-2016 Ethiopia Competition 3rd Place, Natural Process Category 1st Place.

FrontStreet Coffee Recommended Brewing:

Dripper: Hario V60

Water Temperature: 90°C

Grind Size: Fuji Royal grinder setting 3.5

Brewing Method: Water-to-coffee ratio 1:15, using 15g of coffee grounds. First pour 25g of water for a 25-second bloom. Second pour to 120g, then pause. Wait until the water level in the coffee bed drops to half, then continue pouring slowly until reaching 225g total. Extraction time around 2:00.

Analysis: Using a three-stage pour method to clearly define the front, middle, and back-end flavors of the coffee. Because the V60 has many ribs and drains quickly, pausing during pouring helps extend the extraction time.

Important Notice :

前街咖啡 FrontStreet Coffee has moved to new addredd:

FrontStreet Coffee Address: 315,Donghua East Road,GuangZhou

Tel:020 38364473