Washed vs. Natural: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to processing coffees, there are two primary ways coffee goes from harvest to export. So… what’s the difference?

Washed Coffees
Washed coffees are coveted for their clean cup characteristics as well as their pleasing acidity.  Coffee cherries are harvested, placed in a washing station, where the unripe cherries are sorted out and then de-pulped (the fruit is taken off). The coffee is then introduced to a water holding tank to sit and go through a fermentation stage where remaining fruit is removed.  After the fermentation stage the coffee is dried (either on patios, drying tables or mechanically), and then prepared for export. 

Naturally Processed Coffees
Naturally processed coffees are coffees that are prized for their unique characteristics.  These are usually something along the lines of fruity (blueberry, strawberry, tropical) and generally have a heavier body.  After the coffee cherries are harvested they are placed out to dry in the open air.  These are dried on a patio that is manually turned to promote even drying or on specially raised drying tables that provide a nice airflow around the cherries resulting in a more even drying.  When it is properly dried, the outer skin and flesh are removed from the cherry and the coffee is prepared for export. 

Now you can purchase our favorite two naturally processed coffees in one pack. Our new gift box not only allows you to experience some of the rarest coffees available but to compare the effects of different processes (washed vs. natural) firsthand.