Formerly known as Jose, this coffee returns under a name that stands on its own. Sipi is a well-known tourist region, famous for its breathtaking waterfalls and sweeping views over the African plains. It is also one of the most established coffee-producing areas in Uganda. At its peak in the 1970s, Sipi played a key role in filling the global coffee shortfall caused by devastating frost in Brazil. During that time, investment and infrastructure poured into the region from large international exporters. Some of those facilities are still in use today, but many have  been left abandoned, serving as a stark reminder of how temporary and extractive coffee relationships can be. While Sipi’s producers are among the most experienced in Uganda, they are understandably cautious of buyers and wary of being taken advantage of. The Ugandan-led team at Zukuka Bora has made great strides in building trust here. With a constant presence on the ground and, more recently, the purchase of land for a local buying station and processing facility, they have signalled a long-term commitment to the region. The expertise of the local producers has fast-tracked Zukuka Bora’s quality development, especially when it comes to alternative processing methods like the natural process used in this release. Ripe cherry is picked, laid out on raised beds, turned regularly and carefully monitored until the ideal moisture content is reached. The result is a vibrant natural coffee with green grape and pear acidity, balanced by a juicy strawberry sweetness. Thanks to Ken and the Sipi team for the latest version of a Commonfolk favourite.