Kenya is a favorite origin of mine for a multiplicity of reasons. This stellar coffee from the Gachatha Factory in Nyeri, Kenya cements my profound fondness. This coffee was purchased from the wonderful Ali of Love Letters Charming Coffee; he, in turn, sourced it from Cafe Imports.

The Gachatha Factory, established in 1963, the same year when Kenya received its independence, is a washing station located in Karandu on the slopes of the Aberdare Range. This growing high-elevation growing region (1800-2100 MASL) is rich with volcanic soil and is worked predominantly by smallholder farmers who are a part of the Gachatha Farmers’ Cooperative Society. With over 1500 active members, the Society encourages sustainable agricultural practices to promote cherry quality and limit adverse environment effects. 

This full washed blend is composed of 3 classic Kenyan varieties: SL28, SL34, and Ruiru 11. In my more developed roasts, the three contribute to a cup that shines with a classic Kenya juiciness and sweetness reminiscent of red berries, cherry tomato, and bay leaf. After much deliberation, I preferred offering this more delicate presentation which forfeits a bit of the juiciness and sweetness for a crisp presentation of yellow apple acidity, currant sweetness, intense chamomile florality.