FILTER | ETHIOPIA AYLA BOMBE G1 WASHED

High in the lush highlands of Ethiopia’s Sidama zone, in the village of Bombe, lies the Ayla washing station—one of 26 stations managed by the family-run Testi Coffee. Named after the founder’s niece, Ayla reflects a deep commitment to both quality and community, surrounded by fertile soil and nourished by the nearby Bonora River.

Coffee here is grown by smallholder farmers on tiny family-run plots, often no larger than two hectares. Most farming is done by hand, and nearly all practices remain traditional—without the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides. Ripe, red cherries are carefully handpicked, then delivered to Ayla for processing. At the station, they are sorted by hand, pulped, and fermented for 36–48 hours. After washing in clean water, the parchment is dried slowly on raised beds, with frequent turning to ensure even drying.

Testi Coffee, through its Testi Specialty Coffee initiative, doesn’t just focus on quality, they invest in the people behind every bean. In Sidama, coffee has helped build schools, expand access to clean water, and connect homes to electricity. projects driven by direct trade and full traceability now possible under new Ethiopian coffee regulations.

This fully washed lot was roasted for filter brewing and offers a beautifully clean cup. Expect bright, jammy notes of strawberry, balanced by sweet honey and smooth chocolate, a vibrant expression of Ethiopia’s legendary coffee heritage.