The Laayyoo Natural is produced at the Raro Nensebo washing station in Uraga, Guji, which falls under the Oromia Region of Ethiopia. This area is oftentimes mistakenly known as Sidamo Guji, but instead should be known only as Guji or West-Guji on its own. The farmers that deliver cherry to this washing station, come from the ‘kebele’ or village known as Teraga, and their farms sit at an elevation of between 2,100 and 2,350 m.a.s.l. These producers generally grow and this lot is primarily comprised of the 74110 and 74112 varieties, which are local varieties selected for their production and disease resistance. The word Laayyoo refers to an indigenous tree growing in this area, used for shade on coffee plantations. Its deep roots allow for the falling leaves to offer rich, nutrient dense compost, acting also as a fertilizer. This coffee was processed by Sookoo Coffee, which is run by Ture Waji, also known as “The King of Guji”! While this particular lot comes from Uraga, Ture and his company Sookoo Coffee also have another washing station in Shakiso. Both “washing” stations currently only produce natural coffees, but washed coffees are in the plans for upcoming harvests. Ture has strong connections to the land, its community and farmers, as he grew up in the region. After studying, he started as an export and farm manager at his cousin’s farm and company Mormora, and then later at Guji Highlands Coffee. Thanks to the trade and coffee liberalization in Ethiopia, he was able to start Sookoo Coffee (formerly known as Dambi Uddo), building his first washing station and exporting his first coffee under his own brand in 2018.

Ethiopia has a rich and vibrant coffee economy. Coffee production is a crucial part of the country's economy, employing millions of people and contributing significantly to its export revenues. Ethiopia is known as the birthplace of coffee, and its unique coffee varieties, such as the heirloom varieties found in the Laayyoo Natural coffee, are highly valued for their exceptional flavors and quality. The coffee industry in Ethiopia is deeply rooted in tradition, with many small-scale farmers cultivating coffee using traditional methods. The government plays a significant role in the coffee sector, providing support to farmers, promoting sustainable practices, and ensuring fair trade. Ethiopian coffee is renowned worldwide for its distinct taste profiles and is highly sought after by coffee enthusiasts around the globe.

We love this coffee for its sweetness, tropical flavors, and balanced acidity.