Origin Story
From the lush forests of the Limu region in western Ethiopia's Oromia zone, this exceptional coffee is cultivated by smallholder farmers in traditional "forest gardens" at elevations around 1,800 meters above sea level. Limu is one of Ethiopia's most historic coffee-growing regions, where coffee trees grow semi-wild under the shade of indigenous trees, creating a unique microclimate that produces beans with remarkable clarity and balance. The washed processing method—where cherries are pulped, fermented for 36-48 hours, and dried on raised beds—creates the clean, tea-like character and bright acidity that define Limu coffee. This region's coffee has been traded for centuries, and the farmers here maintain traditional cultivation methods that protect the forest ecosystem while producing some of Ethiopia's most elegant and refined coffees. Each purchase supports over 400 smallholder farming families who are stewards of these precious coffee forests.
Producer Details
Cooperative: Limu Coffee Farmers Cooperative Union
Region: Limu, Oromia Zone, Western Ethiopia
Altitude: 1,800 MASL (range: 1,100-2,100 MASL)
Process: Fully Washed (wet-processed)
Varietals: Indigenous heirloom Ethiopian varietals
Farmers: 400+ smallholder families in forest garden systems
Fermentation: 36-48 hours underwater fermentation
Harvest Season: November - January
Sustainability & Certifications
✓ Forest Coffee: Grown in traditional shade-based "forest gardens" protecting biodiversity
✓ Organic Practices: No synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, natural forest ecosystem
✓ Direct Trade Partnership: Long-term relationship with Limu cooperative, fair premiums paid
✓ Water Management: Washing stations use eco-pulpers and water recycling systems
✓ Forest Conservation: Coffee cultivation provides economic incentive to preserve Ethiopia's endangered forests
✓ Fair Wages: Premium pricing ensures living wages for farmers and workers
✓ Community Investment: Cooperative supports schools, healthcare, and infrastructure
✓ Heritage Preservation: Maintaining centuries-old coffee cultivation traditions
Tasting Profile
Aroma: Citrus blossom, green tea, delicate floral notes, lemon zest
Flavor Notes: Lemon, green tea, jasmine, honey, subtle wine-like complexity
Acidity: Bright and clean, reminiscent of Earl Grey tea
Body: Medium and silky, elegant mouthfeel
Finish: Clean and crisp with lingering citrus and floral notes
Character: Balanced, refined, and exceptionally clean
Brewing Recommendations: Excellent as pour-over (V60, Kalita), Chemex, or light espresso
Why Limu is Special
Limu coffee represents the elegant, refined side of Ethiopian coffee. While regions like Sidamo and Yirgacheffe are known for explosive fruit flavors, Limu is celebrated for its balance, clarity, and tea-like character. The washed processing method highlights the bean's inherent qualities without the heavy fruit notes of natural processing, making it perfect for those who appreciate subtle complexity and clean flavors. Limu is one of Ethiopia's original coffee-trading regions, with a heritage spanning centuries.
Traceability
This coffee is fully traceable to the Limu Coffee Farmers Cooperative Union and the forest gardens of the Oromia zone. We maintain detailed records including lot numbers, harvest dates, and processing notes. Each lot is cupped and scored at our Dubai facility by founder Mohamed Hamdou, and this coffee is featured in our cupping sessions to demonstrate the difference between washed and natural Ethiopian processing methods.
At 1718 Coffee, we're committed to knowing the people behind every bean we source. Questions about this elegant Limu coffee's journey from Ethiopia's forest gardens to your cup? We're here to share the story.