Tariku Mengesha Rocko Mountain - Ethiopian Specialty Coffee

Experience the vibrant and exotic flavours of Tariku Mengesha Rocko Mountain, an exceptional Ethiopian specialty coffee. This exceptional Yirgacheffe coffee is brimming with tropical and fruity notes, offering a delightful taste that showcases the best of Ethiopian specialty coffee. With tantalizing hints of strawberry, mango, star fruit, and blueberry, this coffee is simply delightful.

The Story Behind the Coffee

Our Tariku Mengesha Rocko Mountain coffee is a testament to the rich heritage and exceptional quality of Ethiopian coffee. Sourced from the renowned Yirgacheffe region, this coffee reflects the dedication and hard work of Tariku Mengesha, who cultivates his farm with care and passion.

Flavour Profile and Brewing Tips

• Taste Notes: Strawberry, mango, star fruit, blueberry
• Roast Level: Light/Medium
• Brewing Recommendations: Ideal for Pour Over, AeroPress, and French Press to highlight its tropical and fruity flavours

Impact and Sustainability

By choosing our Tariku Mengesha Rocko Mountain coffee, you are indulging in a premium coffee experience and supporting sustainable and ethical farming practices. Your purchase empowers Ethiopian farmers, promotes economic stability, and supports community-driven initiatives in the Gedeb region.

Producer Story

Origins and History

Tariku Mengesha is the sole owner of a farm located in Gedeb woreda, south of Yirgacheffe and just west of the border with the vast Oromia region. Coffee is his main source of income, which he uses to support his family of 10 children (3 boys and 7 girls). Besides coffee, he also grows other crops to make ends meet.

Historical Context

Ethiopia is the birthplace of coffee, contributing to 60% of its foreign income. However, the country has faced significant challenges due to conflict. The Ethiopian Civil War, which lasted from 1974 to 1991, severely impacted coffee farmers. The conflict disrupted the economy and led to widespread poverty, making it difficult for farmers to maintain their crops and sell their products. Many coffee-growing regions experienced violence and instability, resulting in the destruction of farms and infrastructure, leading to a decline in coffee production and quality.

After the war ended in 1991, Ethiopia's coffee industry opened up to international markets, allowing for recovery and growth. However, conflict erupted again in November 2021 in several regions, most notably in the northern Tigray region. This conflict caused significant destruction, displacement, and loss of life, disrupting the coffee supply chain and decreasing coffee exports.

The 'Geeky' Stuff

• Cup Score: 88.25
• Altitude: 2000-2100 meters
• Process: Natural
• Origin: Gedeb Village, Gedeo Zone, Ethiopia
• Varietal: 74112 Ethiopian landrace

Detailed Flavour Notes

Tariku Mengesha Rocko Mountain is a sensory delight with its unique and vibrant flavour profile. The tropical notes of mango and star fruit provide a refreshing burst of acidity, balanced by the sweetness of strawberry and blueberry. This coffee is perfect for those who appreciate a bright and clean cup with complex fruity undertones.

Brewing Recommendations

To fully appreciate the complex flavours of Tariku Mengesha Rocko Mountain, we recommend the following brewing methods:

• Pour Over: This method allows for precise control over water temperature and brewing time, ensuring that the coffee's delicate flavours are fully extracted.
• AeroPress: This versatile brewing method allows for controlled extraction, bringing out the coffee's fruity and floral undertones.
• French Press: The immersion brewing process of the French press highlights the coffee's rich and smooth texture, bringing out its tropical and fruity notes.

Supporting Sustainability and Fair Trade

At Firebird Coffee Company, we are committed to supporting sustainable and fair trade practices. By choosing our Tariku Mengesha Rocko Mountain coffee, you are making a positive impact on the lives of Ethiopian coffee farmers and their communities. Your purchase helps provide fair wages, improve living conditions, and support community development projects.

Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Our customers love Tariku Mengesha Rocko Mountain for its unique flavour profile and positive impact. Here are some of their testimonials:

• "This coffee is exceptional. The fruity notes are so vibrant, and it’s perfect for a morning pick-me-up. Knowing I’m supporting Ethiopian farmers makes it even better."
• "Tariku Mengesha Rocko Mountain is my new favourite coffee. The flavours are bright and clean, and I love the story behind it. It's amazing to support such a worthy cause."
• "I’ve tried many specialty coffees, but this one stands out. The flavour profile is unique and delicious, and the story behind it is inspiring."

Join Us in Making a Difference

Experience the rich flavours and positive impact of Tariku Mengesha Rocko Mountain coffee today. By choosing our coffee, you are not only indulging in a premium product but also supporting a brighter future for Ethiopian coffee farmers and their communities.

The Production Process in Detail

Tariku Mengesha Rocko Mountain coffee’s journey from farm to cup involves meticulous care at every stage. The cherries are carefully handpicked by Tariku and his team, ensuring only the ripest and highest quality cherries are selected. Once picked, the cherries are brought to the processing station where they undergo thorough washing to remove impurities.

The cherries then undergo a natural fermentation process to enhance their flavour profiles. This fermentation is closely monitored to ensure that the beans develop the desired characteristics. After fermentation, the beans are dried on raised beds under the Ethiopian sun, allowing them to slowly reach the perfect moisture content.

Commitment to Quality and Excellence

At Firebird Coffee Company, we are dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of quality. Each batch of Tariku Mengesha Rocko Mountain coffee is roasted to perfection by our expert roasters who carefully control the temperature and duration to bring out the coffee's unique flavours. Our commitment to excellence ensures that every cup of Tariku Mengesha Rocko Mountain delivers a consistently exceptional experience.

The Impact of Your Purchase

Your purchase of Tariku Mengesha Rocko Mountain coffee goes beyond enjoying a premium beverage. It represents a commitment to supporting ethical sourcing and sustainable practices. The farmers who contribute to this coffee receive fair compensation, which helps improve their livelihoods and supports the well-being of their families.

By investing in Tariku Mengesha Rocko Mountain coffee, you are contributing to the development of local communities. The income generated from coffee sales helps fund education, healthcare, and infrastructure projects, creating a positive ripple effect that benefits everyone involved.

Coffee Pairing Suggestions

To enhance your coffee experience, consider pairing Tariku Mengesha Rocko Mountain coffee with complementary flavours. The tropical and fruity notes pair wonderfully with:

• Citrus Desserts: Orange or lime tarts enhance the coffee's fruity notes.
• Fruit Pastries: Blueberry muffins or currant scones bring out the coffee's vibrant undertones.
• Caramel Treats: Toffee or caramel bars complement the coffee's sweetness.

Coffee Education and Appreciation

At Firebird Coffee Company, we believe that coffee education is key to appreciating the complexities of specialty coffee. We offer workshops and tasting sessions where you can learn about the different brewing methods, flavour profiles, and the journey of coffee from farm to cup. Join us to deepen your understanding and love for high-quality coffee.

The Future of Specialty Coffee

The specialty coffee industry is constantly evolving, and at Firebird Coffee Company, we are committed to staying at the forefront of innovation. We continuously explore new sourcing opportunities, sustainable practices, and advanced roasting techniques to bring you the best coffee possible.

By choosing Tariku Mengesha Rocko Mountain coffee, you are supporting a future where quality, sustainability, and ethical practices are at the heart of the coffee industry. Join us on this journey and be part of a community that values excellence in every cup.