Ethiopia Sidama Ayla Shantawene Washed
The Ayla washing station is located just south of Shantawane village, where a river curves around open grasslands used for raised drying beds. This natural setting helps moderate temperatures and increases airflow, supporting slow, even drying. A total of 725 smallholder growers deliver ripe cherries to the station during harvest.
Cherries are depulped within eight hours of picking, and the mucilage-covered parchment undergoes submerged fermentation for 36–48 hours, depending on conditions. Once fermentation is complete, the coffee is fully washed in running-water canals until the water runs clear and all mucilage is removed. The parchment is then dried on raised beds under shade netting for 5–7 days to reach a target moisture content of 11–12%, followed by resting and homogenization in a nearby warehouse before transport to the dry mill.
The Ayla washing station is owned by Testi Trading and operated by the Yonis family and their team. We have proudly sourced coffees from Faysel Yonis since 2015, consistently impressed by quality and care. Through Project Direct, Testi Trading reinvests in local communities, including building primary schools and the first high school in Hamasho, Sidama—strengthening education alongside coffee quality.
COFFEE INFORMATION
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Origin: |
Ethiopia |
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Variety: |
774110, 74158 (Heirloom Landrace Varieties) |
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Process: |
Washed |
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Washing Station: |
Ayla Washing Station |
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Farmer: |
725 smallholder farmers |
|
Region |
Sidama Zone |
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Subregion |
Shantawane, Bombe Kebele, Bensa Woreda |
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Drying Practices: |
Raised African Beds |
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Elevation (MASL): |
1950 - 2150 |
|
Grade: |
1 |
