Ethiopia Kayon Mountain Natural – Guji | Light Roast

Farm: Kayon Mountain Coffee Farm
Region: Shakiso, East Guji, Oromia, Ethiopia
Processing: Natural – dried on raised beds
Elevation: 1,900–2,200 meters (6,234–7,218 feet)
Certification: Naturally Grown and Fair Trade
Roast Level: Light

About This Coffee

This Ethiopia Kayon Mountain Natural comes from the Guji Zone of southern Ethiopia, a renowned coffee-growing region located south of Sidamo and Yirgacheffe. Grown at elevations of 1,900–2,200 meters, this coffee is naturally processed to highlight its fruit-forward character, floral aromatics, and natural sweetness.

Kayon Mountain Coffee Farm has been owned and operated by Ismael Hassen Aredo and his family since 2012. The 500-hectare property, with approximately 300 hectares dedicated to coffee cultivation, spans the villages of Taro and Sewana in the Shakiso district, approximately 510 kilometers south of Addis Ababa.

The farm employs 25 permanent workers and approximately 300 seasonal employees. To retain experienced harvest workers in a competitive labor market, the family offers higher wages and provides free transportation. The farm also supports its surrounding communities through contributions toward schools and administrative buildings.

Coffee is cultivated beneath acacia and other indigenous shade trees, which help protect the plants. The farm maintains its own nursery and uses plant material to produce compost for soil fertility.

Natural Processing

Kayon Mountain produces both washed and natural coffees, but this particular lot is naturally processed.

After harvesting, coffee cherries are rinsed, sorted, and spread across raised drying beds. The cherries are turned regularly to encourage even drying and protect their quality. Depending on weather conditions, drying takes approximately 12–20 days.

This process allows the coffee cherries to dry with the fruit intact, contributing to the pronounced fruit sweetness and complexity found in the finished cup.

Flavor Profile

This light-roasted Ethiopian coffee opens with delicate jasmine aromatics and sweet fruit fragrances. The first sip brings back the childhood memory of mild orange tang and blueberry notes, followed by hints of chocolate-covered cherry.

As the coffee develops, flavors of blueberry and strawberry emerge, creating a full-bodied, fruit-forward experience with a clean, pleasant finish.

The Light roast highlights the coffee's floral character, bright fruit notes, and natural sweetness without overwhelming its more delicate flavors.