Starbucks is spotlighting Ethiopia, the birthplace of coffee, with the release of its newest single-origin coffee. The Starbucks Single-Origin Ethiopia whole bean coffee, sourced from the Sidama region, is now available across North America this winter. This blonde roast offers a unique flavor profile, with floral aromas and notes of tangerine and lemon balm, celebrating the distinctive characteristics of Ethiopian coffee.
Ethiopia’s coffee legacy is central to its economy and culture. As Africa’s largest coffee producer, the country plays a vital role in global coffee production, with nearly 25% of Ethiopians reliant on the crop for their livelihoods. The Ethiopian coffee ceremony, a centuries-old tradition, underscores the cultural importance of coffee as a symbol of hospitality and connection.
Leslie Wolford, a Starbucks coffee developer, emphasized the importance of this new release: “The blonde roast really highlights the unique flavor range of Ethiopian coffee, enhancing the intrinsic origin flavors that we’re looking to bring forth.” The coffee bag’s design also honors Ethiopian traditions, featuring the Jebena, a traditional black clay coffee brewer central to the Ethiopian coffee ceremony.
Behailu Gebremariam, General Manager of Starbucks’ Farmer Support Center in Addis Ababa, expressed pride in Ethiopia’s role in the global coffee scene. “Coffee is everything to me. From meeting farmers and learning from them to supporting coffee production, this is what makes me happy,” Gebremariam said.
This launch also highlights the difference between single-origin and blended coffees. Single-origin beans, sourced from a specific region, allow unique flavors to shine, offering coffee enthusiasts a true taste of place. For many, Ethiopia’s coffee serves as an entry point to understanding and appreciating diverse coffee flavors.
As Starbucks brings Ethiopian coffee to a global audience, the company continues to celebrate and honor the rich heritage and traditions of coffee in Ethiopia, cementing its place in the hearts of coffee lovers worldwide.
