From the Highlands of Ethiopia
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Birhan, meaning light in Amharic, isn’t just a name—it’s the feeling this coffee brings to the cup. Grown high in the Gedeb highlands near Chelchele, at elevations between 6,233 and 6,889 feet, this heirloom Arabica thrives in red clay soils under cool mountain mists. The result is a coffee that’s clear, bright, and deeply expressive.
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The land here is cared for by more than 2,500 smallholder farmers. Most work small garden plots, using traditional agroforestry methods that weave coffee trees among native shade species. It’s slow, thoughtful farming, passed down through generations.
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Each cherry is handpicked at peak ripeness, then fully washed in fresh spring water at a local washing station. After fermentation, the beans are dried slowly on raised beds under the sun. That attention to detail preserves the clean, structured character Chelchele is known for.
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At Dafé, we roast Birhan to a light-plus level. That gives it just enough roundness for balance, while keeping the delicate notes intact. In the cup, you’ll find soft jasmine aromatics, a bright flash of lemon acidity, and a smooth honey-like finish.
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Birhan brews beautifully as a pour-over or in a French press, where its clarity and complexity really shine. And if you're pulling it as espresso, you’ll get a vibrant shot with lift and sweetness—not your typical espresso, but something special.
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This coffee is a reflection of its origin—highland-grown, farmer-tended, and full of light.

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