[Aera Experimental] Alo Chilaka 74158 Honey

Country: Ethiopia 
Region: sidama, bensa  
Varietal: 74158 
Processing: Honey 
Fragrance: Perfume-like white florals, Magnolia 
Vibrance: Nectarine, Soft Citrus, Lemon Cream Palate: Rounded body, Honey finish

This coffee was roasted to a low solubility for filter

With a lowered solubility the coffee presents itself in a different light. Harder to overextract, highlighting flavours that would otherwise be lost with higher development.

Coffee is alive in its first weeks and evolves as it rests.

At Aera, we approach grind size and brew method as tools to match the coffee's changing solubility, preserving its clarity early on and amplifying its depth later.

Suggestions for the coffee

Within 30 days of roast

Use a coarser grind (-850 um) to let the cup shine with clarity and balance. A slower dripper will soften the edges, deepening body and sweetness to balance the roast's natural, vibrant acidity. In my experience, recipes with longer brew times (around 3 minutes) give you harmony in a cup.

Beyond 30 days

Shift to a finer grind (-750 um) to draw out concentrated flavour and a lively, refreshing acidity. A faster dripper will help maintain a clean profile, ensuring intensity without heaviness. I find that shorter brew times (around 2 minutes)

keep the cup bright and engaging.

All roasts are calibrated to Aquacode 60ppm

(3 parts magnesium for every 1 part calcium)