Kainamui AB, Kenya

Kainamui is one of two factories operated by the New Ngariama Farmers Cooperative Society in the town of Kianyaga. The coffee is produced by hundreds of smallholder farmers, most of whom cultivate just 200–500 coffee trees on less than a hectare of land. Unlike large estate farms that often rely on large-scale agricultural practices, these small family farms are able to give each tree exceptional care and attention. It may seem counterintuitive that blending coffee from hundreds—or even thousands—of small farms could produce exceptional quality. Yet throughout East Africa, including Kenya, Ethiopia, Rwanda, and Burundi, the cooperative model consistently yields some of the world's most celebrated coffees. Careful cherry selection by individual farmers, combined with meticulous processing at the factory, creates coffees with remarkable clarity, complexity, and consistency. This lot is graded AB, one of Kenya's highest classifications. AB beans are slightly smaller than the coveted AA grade but are equally capable of producing vibrant, expressive cups. In many cases, the distinction is simply bean size rather than cup quality. Region: Kirinyaga Elevation: 1750-2000 MASL Process: Washed Variety: SL 28, SL 34, Ruiru 11 We Taste: Black Currant / Plum / Gooseberry