Ethiopian NekisseN2: A Classic Natural Process Coffee

If you’ve ever wondered why some Ethiopian naturals taste like a burst of summer fruit with a smooth, creamy finish, the answer lies in both origin and processing. The NekisseN2 from 90+ is one such coffee—renowned among specialty roasters for its vibrant profile and consistent quality. But what makes it stand out from the dozens of other Ethiopian naturals on the market? Let’s break it down.

The NekisseN2 is a Grade 12 Ethiopian natural processed coffee grown at elevations between 1750 and 2000 meters, with a complex flavor profile that includes peach, berries, passionfruit, cream, and milk chocolate. It remains balanced and clean from hot to cold, making it a favorite among coffee professionals.

What Is NekisseN2 and Where Does It Come From?

NekisseN2 is a single-origin coffee produced in Ethiopia’s Wellega and Sidamo regions. Originally cultivated in the Shakisso area, it is now grown exclusively in Wellega and Sidamo. The coffee is made from Ethiopian native (heirloom) varieties, a broad genetic pool unique to the region. The beans were harvested between the 2013 and 2014 seasons and processed using the traditional natural (dry) method, where ripe coffee cherries are dried in the sun with the fruit still intact.

Why Natural Process Creates Such Distinct Flavors

The natural process, also called dry processing, is one of the oldest methods of preparing coffee. In this method, coffee cherries are picked at peak ripeness and spread out to dry in the sun, typically for 27 to 30 days. Because the coffee seeds (beans) dry inside the fruit, they absorb more of the sugars and acids present in the cherry. This leads to a naturally sweeter, fruitier cup with more body and fermentation-like complexity. The high-altitude, dry climate of Ethiopia is ideal for this method, ensuring even drying and minimizing spoilage.

Ethiopia is one of the few countries where natural processing is not only common but celebrated for producing some of the most distinctive and aromatic coffees in the world. Unlike washed coffees, which highlight clarity and acidity, natural-processed Ethiopians often shine with bold fruit, floral, and fermented notes.

Flavor Profile: What Makes NekisseN2 Stand Out?

NekisseN2 delivers a clean, layered cup with a notable balance between sweetness and acidity. Primary tasting notes include:

• Peach
• Berries
• Passionfruit
• Cream
• Milk chocolate

As the coffee cools, additional nuances emerge: floral tones, blueberry, aromatic woodiness, and subtle cocoa notes. These characteristics make it a well-rounded coffee suitable for both filter brewing and espresso. Reviewers and roasters have consistently praised its vibrant fruitiness paired with a silky mouthfeel and a gentle sweetness reminiscent of cream and chocolate.

Packaging and Availability

NekisseN2 is available in multiple formats to suit both commercial roasters and home enthusiasts:

• 30 kg jute sacks (green beans)
• 5 kg cartons (green beans)
• 125 g tins (roasted beans)

This variety ensures flexibility whether you’re roasting large batches or experimenting with small home roasts.

The Story Behind the Name

Originally launched in 2009, Nekisse was named after the phrase “Nectar from Shakisso,” referring to the honey-like sweetness of the coffee. Early lots from the Shakisso region were known for their creamy texture, intense berry flavors, and even herbal notes like chamomile. Over time, production shifted to Wellega and Sidamo, but the name Nekisse (later stylized as NekisseN2) was retained. Despite the change in growing regions, the coffee has maintained its signature traits: a luscious, nectar-like body and vibrant berry notes that distinguish it from other Ethiopian offerings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the NekisseN2 coffee?

NekisseN2 is a single-origin Ethiopian natural process coffee from the Wellega and Sidamo regions, grown at 1750–2000m altitude. It is made from Ethiopian native heirloom varieties and was harvested between 2013 and 2014. It is known for its clean, fruity profile with notes of peach, berries, passionfruit, cream, and milk chocolate.

How is NekisseN2 processed?

NekisseN2 is processed using the natural (dry) method, where ripe coffee cherries are dried in the sun with the fruit still on the bean. This enhances sweetness, body, and fruity flavors, and is typical of high-quality Ethiopian coffees.

What does NekisseN2 taste like?

The coffee has a clean and balanced flavor with prominent notes of peach, berries, passionfruit, cream, and milk chocolate. As it cools, it develops additional aromas like blueberry, floral notes, woodiness, and cocoa.

Where is NekisseN2 grown?

NekisseN2 is grown in Ethiopia’s Wellega and Sidamo regions, at elevations between 1750 and 2000 meters. It was originally cultivated in Shakisso but now comes exclusively from Wellega and Sidamo.

What is the coffee’s grade and availability?

NekisseN2 is graded as Level 12, indicating high quality. It is available in 30 kg jute sacks, 5 kg cartons (green), and 125 g tins (roasted).

Why is natural process common in Ethiopia?

Natural processing is common in Ethiopia due to the country’s dry high-altitude climate, which is ideal for sun-drying coffee cherries. This method enhances the coffee’s fruity and floral characteristics, making Ethiopian naturals some of the most aromatic in the world.

Recommended FrontStreet Natural Process Coffees

For fans of the NekisseN2’s fruity and floral profile, try FrontStreet’s Ethiopia Humbera, a classic Ethiopian natural with vibrant berry and citrus notes. Also consider FrontStreet’s Red Cherry from Yirgacheffe, which offers tropical fruit and sweet fermentation traits from a medium natural process. For a deeper fruit-brown sugar experience, FrontStreet’s Sidra from Colombia provides a twist on natural-style processing with bold tropical and chocolate notes. All are excellent representations of how natural processing can shape a coffee’s character. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.