Party Summary 🪩 Here's the topline before breaking it down in more depth for ya:
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Processing is how coffee is treated after harvesting.
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It dramatically affects flavour.
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Washed, natural and honey are the most common methods.
Ok, you're still here: so you're after more than just the topline. We're into it. Let's go into a little more depth. Let's start a little video from Ivan.
Why processing matters
Processing determines:
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Sweetness
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Acidity
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Body
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Fruitiness
Same bean, different processing = totally different cup.
Main processing methods
| Method | Flavour profile |
|---|---|
| Washed | ✨ Clean, bright, clear |
| Natural | 🥭 Fruity, sweet, bold |
| Honey | 🍯 Balanced, smooth, sweet |
How this shows up in your cup
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Washed Ethiopian → floral, citrus, tea-like
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Natural Brazilian → chocolatey, fruity, heavy body
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Honey Central American → caramel sweetness, balance
Processing explains why coffees taste the way they do.
Final thought
Once you understand processing, tasting notes start to make sense — and choosing coffee gets easier.
