GREAT SAND DUNES - Shantawene: Ethiopia Anaerobic Natural (limited edition microlot)

Tasting Notes of: Peach Rings, Raspberry Taffy, Floral, & Honeydew Melon

Roast Style: Light

In the highlands of Damo, Shantawene, within Ethiopia's celebrated Bensa district of Sidama, producer Daniso Horsa cultivates coffee in an environment that is as remarkable as the cup itself. This lush landscape is home to the Shantawene Kebena community, where coffee grows beneath native shade trees in rich red soils at high elevation.

The journey to Damo winds through dense greenery and vibrant rural communities, where the scent of berbere spices drift through the air beneath towering acacia trees. While the setting is breathtaking, producing exceptional coffee here is the result of skilled, labor-intensive work. Every season begins with delicate white blossoms that slowly develop into ripe crimson cherries, each one carefully hand-picked at peak ripeness over multiple passes through the farm.

In addition to his Damo farm, Daniso also produces coffee in Faficho, Bombe Kebele, another renowned growing area within Bensa. Coffees from Bombe are known for their exceptional density and concentrated sweetness, often featuring smaller bean sizes that contribute to their vibrant, expressive character.

Many of the trees in Bombe belong to the local Mikicho variety, a landrace closely related to the celebrated Gesha. Recognizable by its larger cherries, wavy leaves, and elongated seeds, Mikicho consistently produces coffees with vivid tropical fruit, elegant florals, and remarkable clarity. This coffee follows along perfectly with those  characteristics. 

Together, Daniso's farms showcase the diversity of Bensa's terroir—combining meticulous farming, distinctive local varieties, and ideal growing conditions to produce coffees with layered sweetness, bright acidity, and the unmistakable floral complexity that has made Sidama one of Ethiopia's most sought-after coffee origins.

We’re tasting an intense, candy-like sweetness in this cup—exactly the kind of vibrant sweetness we seek out. The peach ring sweetness and florality are constant throughout the sensory experience, really popping as the cup cools. Melon and raspberry fruit notes are also found prominently throughout the cup.  This coffee is a special one, and we are beyond happy to be featuring it this summer. We only purchased 2 bags of this microlot, so get it while you are able. 

Owners Notes: 

-This coffee is one of our current favorites. The sweet fruit tasting notes jump out at you in both the aroma and flavor profile of this coffee. It is one of our highest scoring coffees and one we can't put down.