Gatuya AA · Washed · Batian, SL28, SL34, Ruiru 11 · Kenya

This microlot was processed in the Gatuya Coffee Factory, one of the two washing stations operated by the New Murarandia Farmers Cooperative Society, which has a total of around 3,500 smallholder producer members. Each farmer owns from about a fifth to a third of a hectare and delivers coffee in cherry to the factory.

The washed process in Kenya might vary slightly depending on region, but it generally contains a soaking step that is unique to this country. After the coffee is picked ripe and depulped the same day, it’s then fermented in open-air tanks made of concrete for one to two days. Then it’s washed thoroughly using water channels before being soaked underwater for 12 to 72 hours. Lastly, it’s spread on raised beds to dry in the sun.

Murang'a is located on the western slope of the Aberdare Mountains. Here, the soil is red and rich and the weather is cooler than in most of Kenya. With valleys and streams throughout the area, 80% of the population is reliant on farming and agriculture.