In recent years, Guji coffee has garnered significant attention from the specialty coffee community for its exceptional quality and unique flavor profiles. This acclaim is well-deserved, considering the emergence of numerous privately owned washing stations in an area that traditionally processed coffee using the natural (dry) method. The introduction of these washing stations has revolutionized coffee production in Guji, leading to outstanding coffees that rival those from the renowned Yirgacheffe region, thanks to the close proximity of the two areas. However, it's worth noting that in Ethiopia, the term "close" is relative due to the challenging travel conditions. What may be considered a short distance of 100 kilometers can often translate to a lengthy ten-hour drive, thereby highlighting the country's diverse terrain and rich cultural diversity.
Guji Zone, located in the Oromia region of Ethiopia, became a distinct administrative area in 2002. Prior to its formation, the Guji territory, named after the Guji tribe of the Oromo people, was part of the Borena zone. Guji Zone shares its border with the Southern Nations, Nationalities & People's Region (SNNPR), which encompasses the Gedeo Zone (the home of Yirgacheffe) and Sidama Zone.
In the realm of coffee exports, few companies specialize in sourcing and exporting coffees exclusively from Guji Zone. Sibu Coffee Exporter PLC, however, stands out as an exception. Its staff members have been deeply involved with Guji farmers for over two decades, engaging in various capacities. Sibu Coffee's founders played a critical role in establishing some of the first washing stations in the area when it was still part of the Borena Zone, under the umbrella of the expansive Oromia Coffee Farmers Cooperative Union. To ensure better market access for Guji farmers, Sibu Coffee Exporter commenced operations in 2014, primarily focusing on shipping Guji coffees to importers and roasters worldwide. Currently, Sibu Coffee operates multiple washing stations in Guji Zone, including one situated in the kebele (village) of Guracho, in the western Kercha district. This single origin specifically comes from the Guracho washing station.
Despite its proximity to Yirgacheffe, the Guracho region offers a wide range of coffee profiles, showcasing the remarkable diversity within Guji. These profiles vary from the expected notes of sweet lemon candy and floral tea to the surprising flavors of heavy green melon, peach, and rose. The natural process Guracho coffees are equally outstanding, with both "Grade 3" and "Grade 1" preparations making appearances on offer lists. Overall, Guji coffees, especially those from Guracho, represent a captivating and diverse range of flavor profiles, showcasing the remarkable quality of coffee produced in this region.
