Coffee lovers are often fascinated by the various processing methods that bring out the unique flavours and characteristics in their favorite brew. Let's talk about a coffee processing method that's got a touch of uniqueness and a bit of stickiness to it, the semi-washed process. It's like the middle child between fully washed and natural coffee processing methods, bringing out some delightful flavours that will make your taste buds dance. 

What is a Semi-Washed Process?

Like it said before, the semi-washed process, also known as the pulped natural or honey process, is a coffee processing method that combines elements of both the fully washed and natural processes.

So, when the coffee cherries are harvested, they go through a process where the outer skin and a part of the pulp are removed. But here's the twist - they don't strip off all the sticky fruit mucilage. Instead, they leave a little bit of that gooey goodness on the beans and that's what gives semi-washed coffee its special touch. Shortly, it involves removing the outer skin or pulp from the coffee cherries, but retaining a certain amount of the sticky fruit mucilage during drying.

Steps of the Semi-Washed Process:

Speaking of steps, there are five steps of the semi washed process. To begin with is harvesting. In this first step, ripe coffee cherries are carefully handpicked from the trees. Next step is pulping. The outer skin and a portion of the pulp are mechanically removed, leaving some mucilage attached to the coffee beans. Furthemore, the coffee beans with the mucilage are then placed in fermentation tanks for a certain period. This allows the remaining sugars to be absorbed by the beans.

In addition, the partially pulped coffee beans are spread out on drying beds or patios to dry in the sun or using mechanical dryers. During this process, the beans are constantly turned to ensure even drying. Last but not least, hulling and sorting steps. Once the beans have reached the desired moisture content, the dried mucilage is removed through hulling. The beans are then sorted by size, density, and quality.

Advantages and Disadvantages of The Semi-Washed Process

The Semi-Washed Process has several advantages, which are:

• Enhanced Flavour Complexity: The semi-washed process allows the beans to retain some of the fruit mucilage, imparting unique flavours and complexity to the coffee. It can contribute fruity, sweet, or wine-like notes to the final cup.

• Balanced Characteristics: Compared to the natural process, the semi-washed process offers a cleaner cup profile with a good balance between acidity and body.

• Reduced Water Usage: Unlike the fully washed process, the semi-washed process requires less water for processing, making it more environmentally friendly.

On the other hand, it also has disadvantages:

• Risk of Fermentation Issues: The fermentation stage in the semi-washed process can be challenging to control, as the presence of the mucilage increases the risk of unwanted fermentation, which can negatively impact the flavour.

• Increased Labour Intensity: The semi-washed process requires meticulous attention and skilled labour throughout the various stages, including frequent turning of the drying beans

The Flavors of The Semi-Washed Process

Now, let's talk about the flavours. When you sip on a cup of semi-washed coffee, get ready for a taste adventure. One of the distinguishing characteristics of semi-washed coffee is its sweetness. The retained mucilage on the beans adds a touch of natural sweetness that can be reminiscent of honey or ripe fruits. It's like a subtle, sweet embrace with every sip. Alongside the sweetness, you can expect a medium body that provides a satisfying mouthfeel. The semi-washed process strikes a balance between the lighter body of fully washed coffee and the heavier body of natural processed coffee.

Examples of The Semi-Washed Process Results

When it comes to good examples of semi washed process results, Arabica Toraja stands tall as a shining example. Hailing from the highlands of Toraja in Indonesia, this specialty coffee takes us on a captivating journey through the semi-washed process, unveiling flavours that are sure to leave a lasting impression. In the pristine mountainous region of Toraja, skilled farmers handpick ripe Arabica coffee cherries with utmost care. These cherries undergo a meticulous semi-washed processing method that captures the essence of the land and enhances the unique characteristics of the beans.

Arabica Toraja, processed through this semi-washed method, showcases a remarkable flavour profile. With each sip, you'll be greeted by a pronounced sweetness that resonates with honey-like notes. It's a sensation that caresses your palate, leaving a lingering impression of indulgence.

Interested in Arabica Toraja? We provide you the best with originally from Toraja land.  Contact us, here.