Oreti Estate

Concentrated flavours of raspberry & aniseed, juicy body with an intense-lingering finish.

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It only takes a couple of minutes of chatting with Boyce Harries, caretaker of the family-owned Oreti Estate, to realise that he is a consummate coffee professional. Everything on his farm – from the choice of nutrients to their pruning techniques, from the distance between trees when they are planted to the range of varietals being planted – happens intentionally. Hearing then that he is still planting the SL14 varietal was a clear indication that these trees really are special. The precursor to SL28 and SL32, this varietal has largely found disfavour because of its susceptibility to disease; however, this is a real shame because the resulting coffee is highly sweet with a deep, stewed fruit flavour. After just one taste, I am sure you will agree.

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Located in Kenya, the Oreti Estate is managed by producer Boyce Harries. This specific lot features the SL14 varietal, a selection historically significant to the region’s coffee development. When evaluating such coffees, roasters like Five Senses often highlight the unique interplay between the cultivar and its terroir. The profile for this coffee is characterized by notes of aniseed, berry, and spice, offering a juicy mouthfeel with a distinct raspberry finish.

SL14 is frequently noted for its resilience and ability to produce complex, layered cups. To better understand how these specific descriptors—such as the interplay of spice and fruit—fit into the broader spectrum of coffee evaluation, one might consult a flavor wheel. While every harvest varies, the combination of the SL14 varietal and the careful processing at Oreti Estate results in a cup that balances bright, juicy acidity with deeper, savory undertones.