Physical and Organoleptic Quality Attributes of Lowland Coffea arabica Genotypes Introduced and Grown in Southwestern Ethiopia

Ethiopia is the center of origin and genetic diversity for Arabica coffee ( Coffea arabica L.). The country’s coffee sector relies on this genetic diversity to produce high‐quality coffee with unique flavor profiles. However, little is known about the quality of introduced lowland coffee genotypes. This study aimed to evaluate the quality of introduced lowland coffee genotypes in southwestern Ethiopia. Seven coffee entities, comprising five introduced lowland genotypes and two standard checks, were evaluated in a multilocation field trial conducted at Agaro, Teppi, and Gelesha over 3 years. The experimental design employed was a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Quality parameters, including both physical characteristics and cup quality attributes, were analyzed at the Jimma Agricultural Research Centre, Coffee Quality and Processing Laboratory, using a completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications, following the washed processing method. Data on physical parameters (screen size, shape and make, odor, color, and raw quality) and cup quality attributes (aromatic intensity, aromatic quality, acidity, astringency, bitterness, body, flavor, overall, and total quality) were collected and analyzed. Significant genotypic variation ( p < 0.05) was observed across locations for all traits except screen size and odor. Location‐specific differences were noted, excluding bitterness in Teppi and color, aromatic intensity, and astringency in Gelesha. Key quality parameters such as acidity, bitterness, body, flavor, raw, and cup scored 7.50–8.50, 3.83–4.67, 7.50–8.50, 7.50–8.60, 35.67–39.00, and 46.83–53.43, respectively. Total quality scores ranged from 83.83 to 90.77 points, categorizing genotypes as very good and highly acceptable, with the Eb1 genotype exhibiting a distinct spicy character. Essential parameters such as yield, yield‐related attributes, and resistance to diseases and insect pests also need to be considered. Subsequently, genotypes can be recommended for production following evaluation by the National Variety Releasing Committee. Further research should investigate genotype–environment interactions and the biochemical composition of sensory traits to improve quality consistency in lowland agroecologies.