Coffee flavour is shaped by many factors, including origin, roasting and brewing method. But one of the biggest influences on how a coffee tastes is its processing method.
Coffee processing refers to how the coffee cherry is removed from the bean after harvesting. Different processing methods affect sweetness, acidity, body and flavour notes in the cup.
The three main coffee processing methods are washed, natural and honey processed coffees.
What Is Washed Process Coffee?
Washed coffee, also known as wet processed coffee, is made by removing the fruit from the coffee cherry before the beans are dried.
After harvesting, the outer fruit is mechanically removed and the beans are fermented in water tanks to break down any remaining mucilage. The beans are then washed clean and dried on patios or raised beds.
What does washed coffee taste like?
Washed coffees are known for:
- Clean, crisp flavours
- Bright acidity
- Lighter body
This method allows the characteristics of the coffee origin to shine through, making it the most popular brewing method.
Want to try? Fullsteam Espresso has all the best characteristics of washed coffee.
What Is Natural Process Coffee?
Natural coffee, also known as dry processed coffee, is made by drying the whole coffee cherry before removing the fruit.
The cherries are spread across raised beds or patios and left to dry in the sun for several days. During this time, the fruit naturally ferments around the bean before being removed.
What does natural coffee taste like?
Natural processed coffees are typically:
- Fruity and sweet
- Full-bodied
- Fermented or wine-like
- Richer in texture
Because the bean dries inside the fruit, it absorbs more sugars and fruit character during processing. This process is often preferred for filter coffees.
Want to try? Kamavindi is the most exceptional natural coffee we have in our range.
What Is Honey Process Coffee?
Honey processed coffee sits somewhere between washed and natural processing.
In this method, the coffee cherries are de-pulped, but some of the mucilage is left on the bean during drying. The sticky texture of the mucilage is what gives honey processing its name.
What does honey processed coffee taste like?
Honey processed coffees are often:
- Sweet and balanced
- Smooth-bodied
- Less acidic than washed coffees
- Cleaner than naturals
They typically combine the clarity of washed coffees with some of the sweetness and body of natural coffees.
Want to try? Hermosa is a great example of the best of honey coffees.
Which Coffee Processing Method Is Best?
There’s no single best coffee processing method, it all depends on the flavours you enjoy. Plus, a lot of coffee blends will have a mix of processes to achieve a perfect balance of flavour and mouthfeel.
- Choose washed coffee if you prefer clean, bright and crisp flavours.
- Choose natural coffee if you enjoy fruity, bold and complex coffees.
- Choose honey processed coffee if you want a balanced cup with sweetness and smoothness.
