Types of Coffee in Kenya A Guide to Kenyan Coffee Varieties
Kenya is renowned for its world-class coffee, known for its bright acidity, complex flavors, and rich aroma. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or just starting to explore specialty coffee, understanding the types of coffee in Kenya will give you insight into the country’s rich coffee culture. From Kenya AA coffee to the legendary SL28 coffee, Kenyan coffee offers a wide variety of flavors and characteristics that stand out globally.
In this guide, we’ll explore the different coffee varieties grown in Kenya, the country’s coffee grading system, and what makes Kenyan coffee beans so special.
Understanding the Coffee Industry in Kenya
Kenya’s coffee industry is a vital part of the country’s economy, employing thousands of smallholder farmers. The country primarily produces Arabica coffee, which thrives in the high-altitude regions of central Kenya, benefiting from volcanic soils and favorable climatic conditions.
Kenyan coffee production is well-regulated, ensuring high-quality beans that consistently rank among the best in the world. The auction system in Kenya, where coffee is sold through competitive bidding, further ensures farmers get fair prices for their produce.
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The History of Coffee in Kenya
Although coffee is not native to Kenya, it was introduced by missionaries in the late 19th century. Over time, Kenyan farmers adopted coffee cultivation, developing unique varieties suited to the country’s conditions. Today, Kenya is one of the most respected coffee-producing nations, with its beans highly sought after in global specialty coffee markets.
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Types of Coffee Grown in Kenya
Kenya primarily grows Arabica coffee, but within this category, several unique varieties contribute to the country’s distinct coffee profile.
SL28 and SL34: The Signature Kenyan Coffee Varieties
SL28 and SL34 are among the most famous Kenyan coffee varieties, known for their outstanding cup quality.
- SL28: Developed in the 1930s, this variety is drought-resistant and produces complex, fruity flavors with bright acidity.
- SL34: Known for its adaptability to different elevations, SL34 thrives in high-rainfall areas and offers a balanced, full-bodied cup.
These two varieties form the backbone of Kenya AA coffee, the country’s highest coffee grade.
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Classic coffee and types of coffee in kenya
Bourbon and Typica are some of the oldest coffee varieties in the world, and they continue to be grown in Kenya in limited quantities.
- Bourbon: Known for its deep sweetness and complex flavors.
- Typica: A smooth and balanced variety with mild acidity and a clean finish.
These varieties are not as widely cultivated as SL28 and SL34, but they still contribute to Kenyan coffee production.
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Batian: The New Generation Coffee Variety
Batian is a relatively new coffee variety introduced in Kenya to address disease resistance while maintaining high-quality flavors.
- Developed by the Kenya Coffee Research Institute, Batian offers similar cup characteristics to SL28 and SL34 but with improved resistance to coffee diseases.
- This variety is increasingly popular among Kenyan farmers looking for a balance between quality and sustainability.
Ruiru 11: The Disease-Resistant Variety
Ruiru 11 is another disease-resistant variety developed in Kenya, named after the Kenya Coffee Research Station in Ruiru.
- It is resistant to coffee leaf rust and berry disease, two major threats to Kenyan coffee crops.
- While it doesn’t always match the complexity of SL28, careful processing can yield a high-quality cup.
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The Role of Smallholder Farmers in Kenyan Coffee
A large portion of Kenya’s coffee production comes from smallholder farmers who are part of cooperative societies. These farmers focus on high-quality cultivation and often process their coffee using traditional methods to enhance the final cup profile.
Processing Methods Used for Kenyan Coffee
Kenya is known for its washed (wet) processing method, which enhances the clarity and brightness of flavors in the coffee. The meticulous processing methods contribute to Kenya’s reputation for producing some of the cleanest and most complex coffees in the world.
The Flavor Profile of Kenyan Coffee
Kenyan coffee is famous for its vibrant flavors, often featuring:
- Bright Acidity: A crisp, citrusy acidity that makes Kenyan coffee stand out.
- Fruity Notes: Tasting notes often include blackcurrant, berry, and tropical fruit flavors.
- Full Body: A rich, syrupy mouthfeel that enhances the coffee experience.
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The Coffee Grading System in Kenya
Kenyan coffee is graded based on size and quality, with Kenya AA being the highest grade.
| Grade | Description |
| Kenya AA | Large beans with complex flavors and high acidity |
| Kenya AB | Slightly smaller beans, still high quality |
| Kenya PB (Peaberry) | A unique, single-rounded bean with intense flavors |
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Sustainability and Kenyan Coffee
Sustainability is a growing concern in the Kenyan coffee industry. Many farmers are adopting eco-friendly practices, such as shade-grown coffee and organic farming methods, to ensure long-term coffee production.
Exploring Kenyan Coffee at the Source
For coffee lovers, visiting coffee farms in Kenya offers a firsthand look at the journey from bean to cup. Coffee-growing regions like Nyeri, Kiambu, and Kirinyaga provide guided tours where visitors can learn about cultivation, processing, and tasting techniques.
Conclusion: The Diversity and Excellence of Kenyan Coffee
Kenyan coffee is celebrated worldwide for its unique flavors, high quality, and strong industry regulation. Whether you prefer the classic SL28 coffee or the newer Batian variety, Kenya offers a coffee experience like no other. Understanding the different types of coffee in Kenya helps coffee enthusiasts appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into every cup.
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Sources
- Coffee Production in Kenya – Wikipedia
- Kenyan Coffee Varieties – Wikipedia
- SL28 and SL34 Coffee – Wikipedia