Description

Growing region: various regions in Kenya
Growing Altitude: 1,100-1,900 m.a.s.l.
Preparation: Washed

The country’s rich volcanic soil and ideal climate conditions also play a significant role in producing high-quality coffee beans.

Coffee plant type: SL-28 and SL-34

SL-28 and SL-34 are two varietals of coffee plants – only grown in Kenya-  that are highly regarded for their exceptional cup quality. They were developed in Kenya in the 1930s and 1940s by Scott Laboratories, hence the “SL” in their names.

The SL series are producing an exceptional cup profile, the only reason it hasn’t been cultivated widely outside of Kenya, that the plant is extremely prone to coffee leaf rust and nematodes in the soil. Despite these issues and challenges, the SL varieties remain popular across Kenya today. Newer varieties are still adapting to the soil and the weather in Kenya, even though they are of high quality. The SL varieties just have that ‘X factor’ that a lot of tasters look for.

SL-28 is known for producing coffee beans with a bright, complex acidity and a distinctive flavor profile that includes notes of blackcurrant, red currant, and citrus. It is highly prized by specialty coffee roasters and is often used in single-origin coffees or as a component of high-end blends. However, SL-28 is susceptible to coffee berry disease and can be difficult to cultivate, which has led some farmers to replace it with other varietals.

SL-34, on the other hand, is slightly less acidic than SL-28 but is still highly regarded for its excellent cup quality. It is known for producing coffee beans with a smooth, well-balanced flavor profile that includes notes of chocolate, caramel, and citrus. SL-34 is more disease-resistant than SL-28 and is easier to cultivate, making it a popular choice for coffee farmers in Kenya.

Producers: coffee cooperatives

Kenya is well known for its highly organized network of coffee cooperatives. This system produces remarkable consistency in growing methods, milling, and auctioning across a web of about 150,000 growers, the majority of which are small-scale farmers.