Shujaa, Washed

Blackberry, vine-ripened tomatoes and lemon butter.

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Shujaa means ‘hero’ in Swahili and this coffee is produced by a real group of coffee heroes and heroines. Gikanda Farmers’ Cooperative Society created a coffee revolution in Kenya and fought to sell their coffee directly to buyers who would pay what their coffee was worth. This lot comes from Ndaro-ini Factory, one of 3 factories operated by the Gikanda Farmers’ Cooperative Society (FCS). Gikanda FCS was founded in 1996 and has developed a reputation for producing lots of the highest quality by continuing to invest in infrastructure, training and supporting their member farmers. Investing in productivity and efficiency improvements to their mill, Gikanda FCS is also pursuing new, direct partnerships with Vava Coffee and Five Senses to secure a sustainable market for their quality coffees. The expertise behind this farm really shows in the cup; vibrant yet balanced blackberry and vine-ripened tomatoes are brought together by a lemon butter mouthfeel.

--- Suggested Recipe ~~~ In: 22g Out: 46g Time: 27sec Temp: 95°C

The Shujaa, a washed coffee from the Gikanda Farmers’ Cooperative Society, represents the distinct profile of Kenya. Produced by the Gikanda cooperative, this lot is processed using the washed method, a technique often employed to highlight the inherent acidity and clean cup profile characteristic of the region. Roasted by Five Senses, the coffee presents a complex sensory experience featuring notes of blackberry, vine-ripened tomatoes, and lemon butter.

When evaluating such specific flavor profiles, it is helpful to consult the flavor wheel to better categorize the interplay between the bright, citrus-forward acidity and the savory undertones often found in high-quality Kenyan coffees. While washed coffees are generally celebrated for their clarity and precision, the specific terroir of the Nyeri region contributes to the unique intensity found in this particular selection. This offering serves as a compelling example of how meticulous processing and regional expertise shape the final cup.