Introduction to Ethiopian Coffee Premium Growing Regions - Sidamo 02

Ethiopian Coffee · Premium Growing Regions Introduction — Sidamo

Altitude: 1400-2200 meters

Garden coffee system

Sidamo is one of Ethiopia's three officially recognized growing regions. Historically an important district within the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples' Regional State, the Sidama region became an independent state through a referendum held on June 18, 2020, breaking away from the Southern Nations to become Ethiopia's tenth regional state. Because it is such a young state, published information about it remains scarce.

Sidamo's flavor profile closely resembles that of Yirgacheffe: whether washed or naturally processed, the coffees show floral and citrus notes, with a smooth, delicate acidity of a quality that can genuinely stand beside Yirgacheffe's. The varieties grown in the two regions are similar, too — mostly medium-sized beans, along with dwarf varieties that produce smaller beans, which farmers often sell separately.

In the past, coffee from lesser-known areas within the Southern Nations was classified under the Sidamo growing region. Now that Sidama State has gained independence, those lesser-known areas may take a different view of how they are classified — we will have to wait and see how that unfolds. According to Wikipedia, the new Sidama State includes towns such as Arbegona, Bensa, and Bursa, all of which turned in impressive performances at the first Ethiopian Cup of Excellence (COE) competition in 2020. Earlier in this series I noted that "Ethiopian coffee can be divided into ten parts, with Yirgacheffe taking eight." To that I would add: "Sidamo takes one part, and the rest share the final part."

The above information has been compiled by FrontStreet Coffee.

We hope this article helps you gain a deeper understanding of coffee.

FrontStreet Coffee Recommendation: Sidamo's Neighbor Worth Tasting — Washed Yirgacheffe

For newcomers to Ethiopian coffee, FrontStreet Coffee suggests starting with our house washed Yirgacheffe, the most classic expression of the region just across the border from Sidamo. Grown at 1700-2100 meters, it is loved for its white jasmine florals, bright citrus and lemon acidity, and a clean, tea-like finish — and its approachable price makes it the first specialty bean many coffee drinkers try. For pour-over, FrontStreet Coffee recommends a V60 dripper, 90-91°C water, a 1:15 ratio with 15g of coffee, and a medium-fine grind (20# sieve passing 80%). Bloom with 30g of water for 30 seconds, then pour in stages to 225g for a total brew time of about two minutes.