
May 2025
Naturals – Coffee with Character
Fruity, full-bodied, and sometimes almost wine-like: Naturally processed coffees bring intense flavors to the cup – and tell the story of their origin in a particularly authentic way.
What Does “Natural” Mean?
In natural or dry processing, the coffee cherry is not washed and depulped directly after harvest, but is dried in the sun with its flesh intact. This method is one of the oldest forms of coffee processing and has become especially common in regions with limited water supply.
The long contact time between the fruit and the bean results in complex, often very intense flavors: from ripe berry to dried plum to fermented-like notes. A natural is never neutral – but rather an expression of its terroir and the craftsmanship of its processing.
Flavors with Edges and Angles
Natural coffees are polarizing – and that’s exactly what makes them exciting. While washed coffees are often known for their clarity and balance, naturals surprise with wild character and fruity fullness. Depending on their origin and processing method, they can taste like strawberry, raisin, red wine, or rum pot.
– Ethiopia: Blueberry, Jasmine, Tropical sweetness
– Brazil: Chocolate, Dried fruits, Creamy body
– Central America (e.g., Nicaragua): Plum, Rum, Floral notes
How to Brew Naturals Best
Naturals are especially well-suited for filter brewing because they allow their full flavor spectrum to unfold. To emphasize the fruity notes, brew them slightly cooler (e.g., 91°C). They also show character when brewed as Cold Brew or Espresso – bold, velvety, and exceptional.
Naturals are not a coffee for casual sipping – they’re for people who want to explore flavor. Give it a try!