Tasting Notes

Apricot Jam, Blueberry Gum, Grape Candy, Strawberry Jam & Dark Chocolate.

Roast Level

Process

Particulars

Elevation:	1,800 m
Variety:	SL28 SL34
Process Type:	Natural CM
Producer:	Aguthi Farmers Co

About this Specialty Coffee

Nestled in the lush landscapes of Nyeri County, Kenya, the Aguthi Farmers Co-operative Society stands as a testament to the rich coffee heritage of the region. At The Espresso Lab, we're continually inspired by cooperatives like Aguthi, which embody the spirit of community and commitment to quality that defines exceptional coffee production.

Spanning the picturesque Tetu District, Aguthi Co-operative Society boasts a membership of 2,091 dedicated farmers, each contributing to the cooperative's reputation for excellence. The society operates four wet mills - Kagumo, Gititu, Gaaki, and Thage-ini - each playing a crucial role in processing the region's prized coffee cherries.

The Espresso Lab recognizes the importance of terroir in coffee production, and Aguthi's location provides an ideal environment for cultivating superior Arabica beans. Situated at an altitude of 1600-1650 meters above sea level, the farms benefit from rich, red volcanic soils and a climate that coffee trees thrive in. With average temperatures ranging from 15-27°C and annual rainfall of 1090mm, the region offers perfect conditions for slow-ripening cherries, allowing for the development of complex flavors that we at The Espresso Lab cherish.

Aguthi's commitment to quality is evident in their choice of coffee varieties. The cooperative cultivates renowned Arabica varieties including SL11, SL34, and Ruiru 11, each known for its unique flavor profile and resilience. This dedication to cultivar selection resonates with our own pursuit of coffee perfection at The Espresso Lab.

The cooperative's annual cherry production averages an impressive 920,000 kilograms, with the main harvesting season running from October to December. This period of intense activity is preceded by the flowering months of April to June, a time when the hills of Tetu District are awash with the delicate white blossoms of coffee plants - a sight that would captivate any coffee enthusiast.

What truly sets Aguthi apart, and aligns with our values at The Espresso Lab, is their commitment to inclusivity and gender balance. Across their four wet mills, Aguthi has made significant strides in involving both men and women in coffee production. The membership statistics speak volumes:

• Thage-ini: 441 men and 105 women
• Gaaki: 92 men and 61 women
• Gititu: 203 men and 90 women
• Kagumo: 814 men and 366 women

This diversity not only enriches the cooperative but also contributes to the socio-economic development of the entire community.

At The Espresso Lab, we believe that exceptional coffee is born from a combination of ideal natural conditions and human expertise. Aguthi Farmers Co-operative Society exemplifies this perfect union. Their dedication to quality, from cherry selection to processing, ensures that each bean that leaves their wet mills carries with it the distinctive flavors of Nyeri County.

As we continue our journey in pursuit of the perfect cup, we at The Espresso Lab look to cooperatives like Aguthi as shining examples of what can be achieved when passion, expertise, and nature work in harmony. In every sip of coffee from Aguthi, we taste not just the rich, volcanic soils of Tetu District, but also the dedication and spirit of the 2,091 farmers who tend to these exceptional beans.