Washed Coffees in 2024: Are They Making a Comeback?
In the coffee world, processing methods are just as important as the origin or roast profile. From natural to honey-processed, coffee lovers have endless options to explore. But there’s one processing method that has stood the test of time: the washed process. In 2024, it seems like washed coffees are making a resurgence. But what does that mean for you as a coffee consumer, especially if you're just starting your coffee journey or care about sustainability?
Let’s dive into what washed coffee is, why it's making a comeback, and what this means for eco-conscious consumers and coffee beginners alike.
What Exactly Is Washed Coffee?
To understand washed coffee’s popularity, it helps to know what the term actually means. Washed coffee refers to a processing method where the fruit, or pulp, is removed from the coffee cherry before drying the beans. The beans are then fermented in water to break down any remaining mucilage, rinsed, and left to dry.
This process results in a coffee that’s clean, bright, and highlights the bean’s natural flavors, particularly the terroir (or the environmental factors like soil and climate). Compared to natural or honey-processed coffees, washed coffees are known for their clarity and consistent taste profile, making them a favorite for those who appreciate the nuances in different coffee origins.
Why Are Washed Coffees So Revered?
For years, washed coffees were the industry standard, particularly among specialty coffee roasters and aficionados. The clean, predictable flavor profiles allowed coffee professionals to showcase the unique qualities of different regions. Whether it’s a bright, citrusy Kenyan or a floral Ethiopian, washed coffees let the terroir speak for itself.
From a beginner's perspective, washed coffees can be a great starting point because their flavors are often more accessible—bright acidity, balanced sweetness, and a clean finish without the earthy or fermented notes that can come with other processing methods.
For those who prioritize eco-friendly choices, washed coffees traditionally require more water, which might seem less sustainable at first glance. However, many coffee farms have developed systems to recycle and filter water, making washed coffees more environmentally responsible than they used to be.
Why the Shift Away from Washed Coffees?
In recent years, there’s been a rise in more experimental coffee processing methods like anaerobic fermentation or honey processing. These processes, inspired by industries like winemaking, offer coffee with bolder, fruit-forward, and sometimes funky flavors. These coffees have become popular, especially among younger, adventurous coffee drinkers looking for something new and different.
Similarly, natural processed coffees, which skip the washing step and allow the beans to dry with the fruit still intact, have gained a following for their more intense, fruity flavors. As more experimental methods became popular, the focus on washed coffees seemed to wane.
So, Why the Comeback?
While experimental processing methods have their appeal, many coffee enthusiasts, roasters, and even casual coffee drinkers are rediscovering the beauty of washed coffees. Here's why they’re making a comeback:
Consistency in Flavor: Washed coffees offer clean, predictable flavors. This is particularly important for beginners who are still figuring out their preferences. Washed coffees provide a foundation to learn about different origins without the extra complexity that can sometimes overwhelm new drinkers.
Terroir-Driven Profiles: With washed coffees, it’s easier to taste the true characteristics of where the coffee is grown. For those who love learning about different regions or prefer a more traditional cup, washed coffees provide a great educational experience.
Sustainability Improvements: Many coffee farms have started incorporating eco-friendly practices, even in washed coffee production. For example, some farms use water-efficient methods or install filtration systems that reduce water waste. This makes washed coffees more attractive to eco-conscious consumers who want to balance flavor with sustainability.
Balanced Complexity: While the trend towards bold, funky flavors is exciting, some coffee drinkers are starting to crave more balanced and subtle complexity. Washed coffees deliver just that. They’re bright without being overpowering and complex without being chaotic, which appeals to a wide range of coffee drinkers, from beginners to seasoned enthusiasts.
Comparing Washed and Natural Coffees: What’s the Difference?
If you’re new to coffee or looking to better understand different processes, here’s a quick comparison between washed and natural coffees:
Flavor Profile: Washed coffees are known for their clean, bright, and crisp flavors, often with higher acidity and clear notes of fruit or floral. Natural coffees, on the other hand, can be fruitier, with a fuller body and sometimes earthy or wine-like characteristics.
Processing: As we mentioned, washed coffees remove the fruit before drying the beans. Natural coffees dry with the cherry still intact, which can impart more of the fruit’s flavor into the final cup.
Sustainability: Traditionally, natural processing uses less water, which seems more eco-friendly. However, as farms adopt more water-saving techniques in washed processing, the environmental impact is evening out.
Body and Mouthfeel: Washed coffees tend to have a lighter body and cleaner mouthfeel, making them easier to drink for some. Natural coffees usually have a heavier, more syrupy body, which can feel richer or more decadent, but might not appeal to everyone.
Tips for Coffee Beginners: How to Enjoy Washed Coffees
If you’re just starting your coffee journey, here are a few tips to help you enjoy washed coffees:
Start With Single-Origin: Washed coffees are ideal for exploring single-origin beans. This way, you can taste the unique characteristics of different regions without interference from the processing method.
Brew Methods: To truly appreciate the clean and bright flavors of a washed coffee, try brewing it using methods like pour-over or a Chemex. These brewing styles highlight the clarity and brightness of the coffee.
Pairing Suggestions: Because washed coffees tend to have higher acidity and a crisp finish, they pair well with light snacks like fruit, pastries, or even soft cheeses. Experiment with different pairings to find what you enjoy most.
Conclusion: Are Washed Coffees Here to Stay?
While the coffee world is always evolving, the appeal of washed coffees is undeniable. In 2024, we’re seeing more people return to the classics, embracing the bright, clean, and terroir-driven flavors that washed coffees offer. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a way to explore coffee or an eco-conscious consumer wanting sustainable options, washed coffees present a balanced, flavorful experience.
So, are washed coffees making a comeback? Absolutely! And if you haven’t explored them yet, now might be the perfect time to give them a try.
In reference to Thomas Wensma's article, 'Are Washed Coffees Becoming More Popular Again?' (October 21, 2024), published in Science Alert.
https://perfectdailygrind.com/2024/10/are-washed-coffees-becoming-more-popular/
