Kenyan coffee is consistently regarded as some of the best in the world. At Fish River Roasters, we’re big fans of Kenyan beans, which we proudly feature in some of our favourite blends and single origins. Here are six things you should know about Kenyan coffee.
1. Kenyan Coffee is among the world’s best
What makes Kenyan coffee so special? It all starts with where it’s grown. Kenya boasts high elevations, rich volcanic soils, and a perfectly moderate climate—all of which combine to create ideal conditions for coffee cultivation. This trifecta of natural factors helps produce some of the most flavourful and aromatic coffee beans on the planet.
2. It has distinctive flavours and aroma
If you’ve ever tasted Kenyan coffee, you’ll know it’s unforgettable. Known for its bright, citric acidity with berries and syrupy sweetness, Kenyan coffee offers a complex and lively flavour profile that stands out from other origins.
3. Coffee was introduced to Kenya when it was a British Colony
Coffee wasn’t always a part of Kenyan agriculture. The Brits sought to establish it as a cash crop for their new colony. Much of their research into coffee varieties is still being used in Kenya today, with the popular SL28 variety coming from the Scott Laboratories established in Kenya in the 1920s.
4. Wet processing is the key to quality
Kenyan coffee is typically processed using the **wet method**, a post-harvest process that removes the outer layers of the coffee cherry using water and fermentation. This highly technical method is critical for maintaining the bean's quality, allowing the natural flavours to shine through.
5. It is sold at a central auction in Nairobi
Once the coffee has been harvested and processed, it heads to Nairobi, where it’s sold at a central auction house. The beans are cupped, graded, and sold in auction lots. It is a transparent system with a goal to give better returns to the growers and co-ops.
6. You can find Kenyan coffee in our range
You can find Kenyan coffee in some of our popular blends, like the Hub blend and the Tiger Snake blend. We also offer it as a single origin, perfect for those who want to enjoy the unique qualities of Kenyan coffee on its own.
Whether you’re a seasoned coffee enthusiast or just discovering the world of specialty coffee, Kenyan coffee is a must-try origin. Its rich history, distinct flavour, and commitment to quality make it a favourite here at Fish River Roasters, and we’re excited to share it with you!
