Ethiopia Gesha Village Rarities #136 Honey – A Honey Process Masterpiece

When it comes to extraordinary coffee, few names carry as much weight as Gesha Village in Ethiopia. Known for producing some of the most sought-after lots in the world, this estate consistently delivers coffees that redefine what specialty coffee can be. The Ethiopia Gesha Village Rarities #136 Honey is a perfect example—a meticulously crafted honey-processed Gesha that offers a unique balance of sweetness, clarity, and complexity.

At Friedhats Coffee Roasters, we’re always on the lookout for coffees that tell a story and excite the palate. This particular lot, from the coveted Rarities series, showcases the artistry of honey processing in one of the world’s most revered coffee origins. Whether you’re a seasoned Gesha collector or new to the variety, this coffee invites you to experience something truly special. Let’s dive into what makes it stand out.

What Makes Gesha Village Rarities So Special?

Gesha Village in Ethiopia is not just a coffee farm—it’s a living library of Gesha genetics. The estate spans over 470 hectares and is divided into blocks named after local rivers, each planted with carefully selected Gesha varieties. The Rarities series represents the very best micro-lots from each harvest, chosen for their exceptional cup quality and distinct characteristics. Lot #136 is one of these rare finds, and it’s processed using the honey method, which adds an extra layer of sweetness and body.

What sets Gesha Village apart is its commitment to traceability and quality. Every step, from planting to processing to export, is controlled and documented. The result is a coffee that not only tastes incredible but also tells a complete story of origin. The Friedhats team roasts these beans with precision, preserving the delicate floral and fruity notes while enhancing the honey process’s natural sweetness. For anyone looking to explore the pinnacle of Ethiopian coffee, this lot is a must-try.

• Gesha Village uses 100% Gesha varieties, ensuring genetic purity and consistent cup quality.
• The Rarities series is limited to small lots (often under 100kg), making each release highly collectible.
• Honey processing at Gesha Village involves careful drying on raised beds to maximize flavor concentration.

Understanding the Honey Process in Ethiopian Coffee

The honey process—also known as pulped natural—strikes a delicate balance between washed and natural methods. The coffee cherry’s skin is removed, but a significant amount of mucilage (the sticky fruit layer) is left on the bean during drying. This mucilage adds sweetness and body without the full fruit-forward intensity of a natural process. In the case of the Ethiopia Gesha Village Rarities #136 Honey, the result is a clean cup with honey-like sweetness, subtle floral notes, and a silky mouthfeel.

Compared to a fully washed Gesha, which might offer more clarity and acidity, this honey-processed version brings a rounded, accessible profile that appeals to both newcomers and connoisseurs. For contrast, you might also explore the Panama Auromar Gesha Natural from Friedhats, which offers a more fruit-forward, winey expression. Both are exceptional, but the honey process of this Ethiopian lot highlights the terroir in a uniquely elegant way.

• The honey process retains about 60-80% of the mucilage, depending on the specific method (yellow, red, or black honey).
• This lot is likely a yellow honey process, resulting in lighter fermentation and brighter acidity.
• Friedhats roasts honey-processed coffees with a slightly lighter profile to preserve delicate aromatic compounds.

Tasting Notes and Brewing Recommendations

On the nose, the Ethiopia Gesha Village Rarities #136 Honey offers an inviting bouquet of jasmine, bergamot, and honeycomb. The first sip reveals a silky tea-like body with flavors of ripe peach, apricot, and a hint of vanilla. As the cup cools, a delicate chamomile sweetness emerges, balanced by a crisp, clean finish. The acidity is bright but not sharp—think lemon zest rather than lemon juice—making it a versatile coffee that works beautifully for both filter and espresso.

For pour-over, we recommend using a v60 or Kalita Wave with water at 93°C and a medium-fine grind. Aim for a 1:16 ratio and a total brew time around 2:30 minutes. This method highlights the coffee’s floral top notes and silky body. If you prefer espresso, try a slightly higher ratio (1:2.5) and a lower temperature (90°C) to accentuate the sweetness without bitterness. For a different take on Gesha, you might also consider the Colombia Diego Horta Infused Gesha Omni—an innovative infused coffee that pushes boundaries in its own right. But for a pure, elegant expression of honey-processed Gesha, this Ethiopian lot is hard to beat.

• Grind size: medium-fine for pour-over, medium for drip, fine for espresso.
• Water quality matters: use filtered water with moderate calcium for best extraction.
• Let the coffee rest for 7-10 days after roasting for optimal flavor development.

Final Verdict: Who Should Buy This Coffee?

The Ethiopia Gesha Village Rarities #136 Honey is a coffee for those who appreciate nuance and elegance. If you’re a collector of limited Gesha lots, this is a must-have addition to your rotation. Home brewers who enjoy experimenting with different processes will appreciate its forgiving nature and clear flavor development. And if you’re new to Gesha, this honey-processed version is a wonderful introduction—it’s approachable without sacrificing complexity.

Given the limited availability of Rarities lots, we recommend acting quickly if you’re interested. Friedhats sources these coffees in small quantities to ensure peak freshness. Pair it with a washed Ethiopian for a fun side-by-side tasting, or simply enjoy it as a daily driver for those special mornings. For a completely different experience, you might also explore the Colombia Seco de Manrepo—a robust washed coffee with deep chocolate and red fruit notes. But for a honey-processed Gesha that truly shines, this lot is one of the best I’ve encountered this year.

If you’re ready to experience the magic of a meticulously crafted honey-processed Gesha, the Ethiopia Gesha Village Rarities #136 Honey is waiting for you. At Friedhats Coffee Roasters, we’re proud to offer this limited lot, and we invite you to explore its delicate flavors and rich story. Whether you’re adding to your collection or treating yourself to something extraordinary, this coffee will not disappoint. Visit our shop to secure your bag while it lasts.