COFFEE TALK: Natural Versus Washed ProcessÂ
There are a number of steps that occur between the coffee fruit being harvested and the first sip of a freshly, brewed cup of coffee. The seed of the coffee fruit is what we roast, brew, and drink but first it needs to be processed. Processing coffee involves the removal of the seed from the multi-layered coffee fruit. There are two main methods that are used to process coffee, washed or natural. Processing occurs after the coffee fruit (often called coffee cherries) has been harvested from the coffee tree. The key difference between these two methods occurs during the drying process.
The natural process is one of the oldest methods of processing coffee. In this method, the coffee cherries are harvested and then laid out on concrete patios or raised beds to dry naturally in the sun. The raised surfaces allow air to circulate around the entire cherry and dry it evenly. As the seed dries with the fruit still attached, it absorbs more of the fruits’ characteristics. This process results in the stronger, berry tasting notes that are commonly associated with the flavor profiles of naturally processed beans.
The natural process does not require machines or water to remove the fruit, essentially making this option better for the environment. However, the drying process usually takes between 3-6 weeks and relies heavily on weather conditions. The natural process requires certain levels of humidity and temperature to ensure proper drying of the seed. A majority of coffee grown in Brazil utilizes the natural process due to the ideal climate and sunshine. Â
The washed process refers to the method of separating the fruit from the seed as soon as possible after harvest, taking place before the drying process begins. A machine is often used to remove the seed from the skin of the fruit. The seeds are then washed with water to remove any residue before being laid out to dry. The tasting notes of a washed coffee bean stem from what the seed absorbs during the growing cycle. The plant variety, climate, soil, and ripeness are all factors that influence the overall taste which also reflects the agricultural methods that were utilized. Â
With washed coffees, the growing region and environmental conditions directly contribute to the flavor of the seed (as opposed to receiving more flavor from the fruit). This process directly highlights the unique tasting notes of the country of origin. The washed El Cimarron is a coffee that Bona directly sources from Guatemala and it contains hints of chocolate and blackberry.
Most coffee roasters will indicate on the whole bean package or on their website page which method of processing was used. You can also ask your barista! Whether the process is washed or natural, each of the beans that Bona sources are full of unique tasting notes that reflect both the country of origin and the method of production.
March, 2023
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