Ngacha Estate

Grown at Ngacha Estate in the Kirinyaga highlands, this batch combines two iconic Kenyan varieties, SL28 and SL34, with a Yellow Honey process that allows more matter and sugars from the mucilage to accompany the drying.

Ngacha Estate is a family farm whose history began in 1954. Today, Martin Muriuki, the second generation, continues his father's work by developing Kenyan reference varieties and experimenting with different post-harvest treatments.

In the cup, the profile is particularly interesting because it doesn't overdo the fruit. The cup begins with redcurrant, with that sensation of a small, bright, and tart red berry. Kumquat then takes over, bringing a more delicate, almost zesty citrus note. Finally, the yellow peach arrives, juicy and sweet. The cup as a whole is balanced and elegant.

The Ngacha Estate, managed by producer Martin Muriuki, represents a distinct expression of the Kirinyaga region in Kenya. This lot features a blend of the classic SL28 and SL34 varietals, which are widely celebrated for their complex acidity and structural depth. What sets this particular offering apart is the application of a yellow honey process; while processing methods vary significantly in their impact on the final cup, honey-processed coffees often bridge the gap between the clarity of washed beans and the syrupy sweetness of naturals. Roasted by Dayglow, this coffee highlights vibrant notes of redcurrant, kumquat, and yellow peach. For those looking to better understand these specific descriptors, consulting a flavor wheel can be a helpful tool in identifying the nuanced fruit characteristics that define this unique Kenyan profile.