Ethiopia Bona Zuria

Know where your coffee comes from

Bona Zuria is a district in Ethiopia’s renowned Sidama region, known for its rich coffee heritage. It is bordered by the Oromia region to the south, Hula to the west, Bursa to the northwest, Arbegona to the north, and Bensa to the east. This exceptional coffee is cultivated by 600 smallholder farmers dedicated to producing high-quality beans.

Each farmer tends to three to eight hectares of land, growing carefully selected coffee varietals, including JARC, under natural shade. With over a decade of experience, they follow meticulous farming practices to ensure the best possible harvest. The JARC (Jimma Agricultural Research Centre) varieties are the result of breeding efforts to enhance pest resistance and productivity, ensuring both quality and sustainability. Ethiopian coffee varieties can be broadly divided into two types: JARC varieties, which were developed through research, and wild coffee plants that grow naturally. Over 40 JARC varieties exist, each offering distinct characteristics while maintaining Ethiopia’s rich coffee tradition.

Once the coffee cherries reach peak ripeness, they undergo a rigorous selection process before being handpicked and delivered to the Ayele Tulu Washing Station. There, the beans ferment for 16 to 35 hours in GrainPro bags or sealed barrels, enhancing their unique flavors. After fermentation, they dry on raised African beds for five to six weeks. Finally, the outer layers are carefully removed to allow for further drying, ensuring the perfect moisture balance for roasting.

Want to know more? Check our Direct Trade page here.