Bishan Wate Washing Station

The story

Bishan Wate is a washing station located in the Guji region of Ethiopia, named after the nearby Wate river. It is one of twenty washing stations owned and managed by Testi Coffee, a family business founded by Faysel Adham Yonis. Approximately 50 local farmers contribute their coffee cherries to the station for processing.

Challenges

The station operates in a densely forested area where smallholders must navigate the logistics of delivering cherries to central processing facilities. The region's high-altitude terrain and specific microclimates require careful management to maintain quality standards.

Innovations

The station utilizes diverse processing techniques including anaerobic fermentation and experimental lots to enhance flavor profiles. They also employ 'special preparation' washed processing to achieve greater clarity and texture in the final cup.