2026-11-01 · 5 min read
Does Processing Method Affect Coffee Rating? Washed vs Natural Data
Do natural and anaerobic coffees really score higher than washed? We grouped 604 rated coffees by process to find out. Blends, decafs and mixed lots are excluded.
The Short Answer
Average Rating and Price by Process
| Process | Coffees | Average rating | Average price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washed | 328 | 4.40 | $22.40 |
| Natural | 77 | 4.53 | $25.57 |
| Honey | 23 | 4.43 | $22.24 |
| Anaerobic / Experimental | 41 | 4.55 | $37.19 |
Treat this as a pattern in our catalog, not a law. Roasters tend to put their most distinctive lots through natural and experimental processing, so quality and process travel together.
Why Naturals and Experimental Lots Rate Higher
Natural and anaerobic processing build intense fruit and sweetness that reviewers reward, while washed coffees showcase clarity. Learn more in our washed vs natural guide, or browse coffees by process.
Best-Rated Natural Coffees
| Coffee | Roaster | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mexico Finca Chelin Hydronatural | Intelligentsia Coffee | $20.00 | 4.8 |
| Ethiopia Gedeb Natural | Heart Coffee Roasters | $22.00 | 4.8 |
| Ethiopia Misty Valley Kayon Mountain | Gracenote Coffee | $24.00 | 4.8 |
| Nicaragua El Limoncillo Javanica Natural | Proud Mary Coffee | $25.00 | 4.8 |
| Daterra Sundrop Brazil | George Howell Coffee | $26.00 | 4.8 |
55 natural coffees rate 4.5 or higher. Compare with the roast level data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does processing method affect coffee rating?
In our index it does. Washed coffees average 4.40 across 328 coffees, naturals average 4.53 across 77, and anaerobic or experimental lots average 4.55 across 41.
Are natural coffees better than washed?
Not inherently. Naturals highlight fruit and sweetness, washed coffees highlight clarity and acidity. The higher average for naturals partly reflects that roasters often reserve natural processing for standout lots.
Why do natural and anaerobic coffees cost more?
Naturals in our index average $25.57 per bag and anaerobic or experimental lots $37.19, versus $22.40 for washed. Extra drying time, careful sorting and controlled fermentation add cost.
Does a higher rating mean I will like it more?
No. Ratings reflect quality as judged by reviewers, not your taste. If you like clean, bright cups, a great washed coffee can suit you better.
How do I choose a process?
Pick washed for clean and bright, natural for fruity and sweet, honey for balance, and anaerobic for bold, wine-like flavors. Our process guides explain each.