Raw Coffee
Lekempt
Nekempti, another name for Lekempti, is a region in the state of Wellega, which lies in the southwest highlands of Ethiopia. The majority of people living in Welega are members of the Oromo ethnic group, who are thought to have been the first to cultivate coffee and have a long relationship with the plant that is closely entwined with Oromo culture. Farming, particularly coffee farming, is the Oromo people’s principal occupation and source of income. Kelem Wollega, East Wollega, and Gimbi (West Wollega) are the sources of Lekempti coffee.
The Process
From November to January is the harvest season for Lekempt coffee. Nearly all of the coffee produced in this area is unwashed, as small-scale farmers dry their coffee beans at home before selling the dried cherries to Akrabis (local traders) when they need money. There aren’t many washing stations in Wollega as the coffee-producing regions are dispersed, which makes it difficult for growers to sell the fresh cherries.
Lekempt in a cup
Lekempt beans are typically elongated and referred to as long berry and have full body. It has a slight distinct fruity flavor and a delicate and a mild acidity that combines perfectly with the exotic and clean aftertaste.