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Nestled in the outskirts of the Governorate of Sana’a, Haraz is a renowned coffee-producing region in Yemen. Celebrated for its enchanting landscape, it is often referred to as “the land above the clouds” due to its remarkable altitudes and captivating natural beauty.
Unique Geography and Biodiversity
Located within the Sarat mountain range, about 150km inland from the primary port of Al-Hudaydah on the Red Sea, Haraz offers a unique setting. It is home to the highest mountain in the peninsula, Jabal An-Nabi Shu’ayb, and shelters the critically endangered Arabian Leopard. The range stretches parallel to the eastern coast of the Red Sea, beginning in Asir, Saudi Arabia, and extending to the Gulf of Aden in the south.
Preserved Culture and Ancient Traditions
- The challenging terrain of Haraz has led to the isolation of its people, allowing them to maintain their distinct culture and ancient farming traditions. This is reflected in the architectural marvels that date back to the Sulajhid dynasty of the 11th century, still standing proudly today.
The Atarah Region: A Coffee Haven
- To the west of Haraz lies the Atarah region, encircled by the majestic Masar mountain range. As a significant part of the Haraz Sana’a district, it reaches elevations of around 2000 meters above sea level. This region is one of Yemen’s largest coffee production areas, renowned for its fertile land and flourishing farms. Farmers here are so dedicated to coffee cultivation that hardly any other crops are grown. Western Haraz, once a prominent tourist destination, boasts diverse terrain and attractions such as Atara Fort and Al-Hijra Castle.
Meticulous Harvesting Practices
- During the harvest period, producers meticulously handpick only the ripest, reddest cherries. Throughout Yemen, farmers may pass a tree several times during each harvest to ensure cherries are picked at their peak ripeness. Once picked, the cherries are transported to one of Sheba’s regional processing hubs.
Double Anaerobic Fermentation: Enhancing Unique Flavours
- For Sheba Coffee’s Double Anaerobic Fermented coffees, the freshly picked cherries are first placed into hermetic bags for a brief fermentation period. The cherries are then removed and placed in a greenhouse for further fermentation, breaking the process to enhance the coffee’s unique cup profile. This cycle is repeated, allowing the coffee to develop its distinctive flavours.
Drying and Processing: Ensuring Quality
- After fermentation, the cherries are placed on raised beds to dry under direct sunlight. The beans are regularly turned to stabilise moisture content. When the moisture level reaches 12%, the dried cherries are collected and bagged for milling. The coffee is then transported to Sheba’s processing centre, where the dried cherries are rested for 1-2 months before being hulled. The beans are gravity sorted, sieved by screen size, and hand sorted to remove defects. Finally, the coffees are graded and bagged, ready for export.
Experience the Excellence of Haraz Coffee
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- Haraz coffee, with its rich heritage and meticulous processing, offers a unique and captivating coffee experience. From the high-altitude farms to the intricate double anaerobic fermentation process, each step ensures exceptional quality and flavour. Enjoy the journey of Haraz coffee from the highlands of Yemen to your cup.
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