Farmer: Producers of Ichuga
Region: Nyeri County, Central Kenya
Varietal: SL28, SL34, Ruiru 11, Batian
Processing: Washed
Altitude: 1,700masl
Tasting Notes: Raspberry and Chocolate

This washed process coffee is from Ichuga, one of four washing stations operated by the Kiama Coffee Farmers’ Cooperative Society (FCS). Located in Kenya’s Nyeri County, Ichuga receives coffee cherries from over 2,100 members, across 703 local farms. Grown in the foothills of the extinct volcano, Mt Kenya, the area’s nutrient-rich soil, high elevations and cool climate all contribute to an ideal coffee growing environment. This lot is made up of mostly SL28 and SL34 varieties, as well as hybrids of these, that are known for their excellent cup quality. The ripest cherries are hand picked, pulped and sorted by weight. AB indicates that only cherries above a certain size and weight have been selected to ensure they have developed maximum flavour. The coffee is then dry fermented for 20-24 hours and washed with fresh water from the Ragati River to remove any remaining mucilage. Further weight grading occurs through water channels, before the beans are soaked for another 48 hours to increase the complexity of the acidity. The lot is then dried on raised beds over a 1-3 week period or until it reaches 11-12% water content. Finally, the coffee is rested for a month before it is exported, ensuring long lasting vibrancy in the cup. Ichuga AB has been roasted for filter and sits in our ‘complex’ category for its berry-forward sweetness and creamy chocolate finish.