We first used the name FUNKY BERRY back in 2019 for a natural Ethiopian coffee we sourced from Nordic Approach. The goal was to give a fitting name to a coffee with a bold, fermented fruit profile and exceptional lingering finish.

Over the years, we’ve sought to find this same flavor profile in our natural Ethiopian selections. This year is no exception — but there is a slight twist.

Boreta delivers the same bold flavor and long-lasting finish, but the mouthfeel is best described as delicate. So while it meets the general expectations of Funky Berry fans, it also brings a small, pleasant surprise. We loved it — and we’re sure you will too.

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The Origin

Boreta is a village in the Arbegona area of Sidama, located at a remarkably high altitude (2200–2300m). In addition to coffee, the region supports the cultivation of sugarcane, bananas, and various spices. True to Ethiopia’s agricultural traditions, the coffee is produced by smallholder farmers working tiny garden plots using methods passed down for centuries.

From December 2023 to February 2024, coffee cherries were harvested and first floated in large water tanks to separate them by density and quality. After depulping (removing the fruit from the bean), the beans were laid out on raised African drying beds. To ensure even drying and controlled fermentation, they were turned every 30 minutes.

Within 12–15 days, the beans reached the ideal moisture level and were transferred to storage for continued flavor development.

Due to Boreta’s extreme elevation, the cherries ripen more slowly than in many other regions (the harvest begins in December instead of November). This slow maturation process contributes to the funky flavor profile — vibrant, wine-like, and sweet.

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The result is a powerful yet clean, delicate, and complex natural Ethiopian coffee experience. In other words:
Both “funky” and full of “berry”!

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REGION: Arbegona, Sidama
VARIETY: Heirloom 74158
TASTE NOTES: Wild Strawberry, Cranberry, White Grape / Fruity & Delicate
PROCESS: Natural
ALTITUDE: 2200–2330m