Tasting Notes: Cherry, Rose, Lemon

Variety: SL28, SL34

Processing: Washed

Origin: Kirinyaga, Kenya

Producers: Rungeto Farmers Cooperative Society

Altitude: 1650m

Cup Score (Importer): 88

Farmers in Cooperative: 600

This lot comes to us from the Karimikui Coffee Factory in Kirinyaga, Kenya - operated by the Rungeto Farmers Cooperative Society. The Karimikui Factory was set up in 1966 and processes coffee from the villages of Githureia, Gituba and Kiamugumo. The main crop in the area is tea, but it's a perfect climate for coffee and many small-holders produce some SL28 and SL34 cherry that gets brought to the factory for processing. Cherries are hand-sorted for defects before pulping, after which they're sorted into Kenya's different size grades. Drying takes place on raised beds over 21 days, tended and covered during the warmest parts of the day. The result is a lot of AB coffee that's bright and exciting, perfect for sharing with the club.

Washed Kenyan coffees are known for their brightness and lively flavors - and this lot brings all that history to the table. A juicy cherry note lends the brew some tartness and sweetness, while a very nice rose flavor softens things up and provides a delightful floral aroma. There's a touch of lemon acidity as well, which keeps the brew punchy and well-balances, making for a cup that's overall crisp and bright. This Kenyan coffee is a great change of pace if you've been enjoying more Central American coffees lately - but don't delay. We only snagged a single bag of this lot - and we're betting that it will go fast!