Kenya Kirinyaga Rungeto Kii AA

Tasting Notes: Blackberry, Blueberry, Candied Lemon, Black Tea

Region: Kirinyaga County Farm: Smallholder Farmers Altitude: 1600-1800 masl Varietals: SL28, SL34, Ruiru 11 Process: Washed

Bright and lively, with a brisk acidity and delicate sweetness layered with dark fruit, citrus, and black tea. This quintessential Kirinyaga coffee comes from Rungeto Farmers Cooperative Society, which was established in 1997 and brings together three member cooperatives: Karimikui, Kii, and Kiangoi. Located on the slopes of Mt. Kenya, the farms benefit from high elevations and mineral-rich volcanic soils that are well suited to producing exceptional coffees.

At Kii, cherries are carefully fermented for 16–18 hours before being washed and graded in fresh running water, then dried slowly on raised tables for approximately two weeks. The result is a clean, vibrant coffee with the distinctive acidity and character that makes coffees from Kenya’s Central Highlands so sought after.

Sourced from the Kirinyaga County region, the Kenya Kirinyaga Rungeto Kii AA is a testament to the meticulous standards maintained by the Rungeto Farmers Cooperative Society. This lot features the SL28 varietal, a plant celebrated for its resilience and its ability to produce complex, vibrant profiles. By utilizing washed processing, the producers emphasize the inherent clarity and acidity of the bean, allowing the distinct characteristics of the Kirinyaga terroir to shine through.

Roasted by Discovery Coffee, this selection highlights the classic Kenyan profile, offering a bright, tea-like structure balanced by deep berry notes. When evaluating such coffees, enthusiasts often consult a flavor wheel to better identify the interplay between the sharp citrus and dark fruit undertones. This coffee serves as an excellent example of how traditional processing methods and high-quality varietals converge to create a sophisticated cup that remains a staple for those who appreciate the nuance of East African origins.