“Wake up and smell the blueberries”

Blueberry (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The second of my tasting reviews, where we will assess the outcome of last weekends roast. I’m looking forward to seeing how this African variety fares. The quote above and image to the right provide a hint of what is to come in the review below.

Traditionally I’d expect lovely sweet, fruity flavours from an Ethiopian origin, with a little more acidity than the Brazil Toffee Cerrado that came out of the roaster the week before. So let’s give it The Whack:

What – Ethiopian Sidamo Special Process Unwashed Gr 4.

• Origin: Africa
• Region: South central mountains of Addis Abada; Ethiopia
• Processing: Dry processed

Supplier: Ministry Grounds.

How – Latte, Aeropress

Assessment – Dry aroma: Face first into a blueberry patch. There is no other way to describe this. Begins on opening the cupboard and continues through to grinding the dose. The blueberries just keep on coming.

Milk course: The smooth blueberry tones remain, with addition to the sweetness from the milk; medium body and could probably be described as a milder brew when consumed with milk. A hint of chocolate comes through on the finish.

Aeropress: Medium acidity, smooth body, with a hit of blueberries early on whereas a little short on finish. Definitely an overarching blueberry flavour here, though probably lacks a little of the broadness of flavour and depth of sweetness in say, an Ethiopian Harrar.

Conclusion; Know This –
This bean variety is great value and certainly does not disappoint. As expected, a deliciously fruity variety on a backbone of blueberry, with a hint of chocolate for good measure. Works well in a milk drink however leans towards greater things when brewed in the Aeropress, allowed to cool a little, and consumed on its own. At its best about 4–5 days after roasting.

Overall Rating: 4/5

Related articles

• What’s Brewing #1 (dept4.net)
• What’s Roasting #2 Ethiopian Sidamo (dept4.net)