We were very specific when it came to the profile we were looking for when bringing in our newest Kenyan coffee this year. This Gucienda Estate SL 28 AA was the one that precisely hit the mark. A complex citrus, honey, and black tea like profile, with profound notes of black currant and watermelon. This beautiful offering comes from the Gucienda Estate, which is operated by brothers Edwin and Benson Mati, and located about 6 miles from Embu town. It was established in 1997 and produces around 50 tonnes of ripe cherries every year. The Estate gets water pumped from the river Glachangi, which flows from the slopes of the magnificent Mt. Kenya, and ensures crisp and clean water for washing coffee.

Processing at the Gucienda Estate wet mill adheres to stringent quality control measures put into place by the Mati brothers, After the ripe cherry is delivered to the mill, it undergoes meticulous sorting to ensure exceptional cup quality of their coffee. Once pulped, cherries are delivered to fermentation tanks where they will ferment for about 24-36 hours depending on the ambient temperature at that time. The coffee is then fully washed to remove any traces of mucilage. The parchment will then be distributed on the raised drying sunbeds where it will dry slowly over the course of around 12-20 days. The parchment is covered during the hottest time.

 

Roast Profile: Light Roast

Producer: Edwin and Benson Mati

Region: Gucienda Estate, Kibugu, Embu, Kenya

Variety: SL-28 AA

Elevation: 1900 masl

Process: Washed

Tasting Notes: Black Currant, Complex Citrus, Honey, Black Tea, Watermelon