Ethiopia's Gedeo Zone, Gedeb region coffee from smallholders around the Banko Chelchele site, grown at 1900-2300 masl. Varietal 74112 and 74110 processed through anaerobic honey fermentation (7-10 days at 15-18°C in oxygen-free conditions), then dried on shaded African beds for 15-20 days. Exhibits a funky profile balanced with raspberry-forward notes, presenting a complex and enjoyable cup.
Brian Zhou runs Thoughtful Coffee as a one person nanoroaster operation in Brooklyn, New York. A software engineer by profession, Zhou financed an Aillio Bullet home roaster and built the business around three core values: transparency in pricing and process, humane relationships over profit maximization, and strict quality control. The focus is on small batch light roasts with floral, fruity, and complex profiles, sourcing unusual and distinctively processed coffees at accessible prices. Zhou documents his roasting process and collects customer feedback openly through a Substack publication, making the entire operation as legible as possible.
