Kenyan Coffee: Exceptional Quality and Unique Flavor Profile
Kenyan coffee is renowned for its exceptional quality and unique flavor profile. The country’s high altitude, fertile soil, and ideal climate create ideal conditions for growing coffee beans rich in flavor and aroma. Kenyan coffee is known for its bright acidity, full body, and complex fruity and floral notes.
Distinct Coffee-Growing Regions in Kenya
Kenya has five distinct coffee-growing regions, each with slightly different flavor profiles. The Central region, for example, has sharp citrus notes with chocolate and fruit. The AA grade denotes the largest, highest quality beans.
The History and Industry of Kenyan Coffee
The Kenyan coffee industry started when British settlers planted the first coffee trees in the late 1800s. Kenyan farmers were restricted from participating in coffee production until the 1960s when some restrictions were lifted. Today, smallholder farmers produce about 70% of Kenya’s coffee on farms controlling 75% of the land under coffee cultivation. Arabica coffee dominates production in Kenya.
Factors Contributing to the High Price of Kenyan Coffee
The highlands of central Kenya provide excellent conditions for growing coffee with fertile volcanic soil and an ideal climate. Kenya’s consistent production of high-quality Arabica coffee together with limited output makes it rare and expensive compared to other origins. Most of the crop is harvested twice per year.
Grading and Processing of Kenyan Coffee
The unique "Kenya Washed" processing method contributes to the fruity, bright, and clean flavors found in Kenyan coffees. About 90% of the crop is wet-processed at washing stations. After processing, batches of coffee are graded based on size, weight, and number of defects. The top grade AA from prime growing regions receives premium prices at auction.
Flavor Profile and Characteristics of Kenyan Coffee
Kenyan coffee has a huge range of flavors depending on region, variety, and methods. It is well known for its intense flavor, vibrant taste, and pleasant aroma with cocoa notes. The intense acidity and berry undertones make a strong cup with complex tones of fruit. The consistency in producing high-quality beans gives Kenyan coffee a distinct character unmatched by others.