Kenya | Gicherori

Gicherori Factory is situated in Kibugu, Embu County, on the slopes of Mt. Kenya. It is operated by the Kibugu Farmers Cooperative Society (FCS), along with Kathkwa, Ndunduri, Gikirima and Ngerwe factories. Several of these are well-known within the specialty community for their focus on exceptional quality. 

Established in 1994, Gicherori works with around 1,100 local farmers who grow Ruiru 11, SL28, SL38 and Batian at altitudes reaching up to 1,800 meters above sea level. The area around the factory is densely populated, and most farmers tend between 100 and 1,000 coffee trees.

Producer members in Gicherori Factory cultivate primarily SL28, SL34, Batian and Ruiru 11. The FCS encourages a sustainable approach to cultivation, with minimal environmental impact where possible, and provides training and education for its members.

Coffee cherries are carefully handpicked at peak ripeness by smallholder farmers and delivered to the factory for processing. The cherries undergo a Fully washed method, where they are first sorted, then pulped to remove the outer skin. Parchment is then fermented in concrete tanks for 12 to 16 hours, depending on temperature and climate conditions, to break down the mucilage. After fermentation, parchment is washed through grading channels using fresh water. During the peak season, coffee is usually soaked for 24 hours before before being transferred to raised beds for drying. 

The drying process lasts 7 to 14 days, with workers frequently turning the parchment and covering it during the hottest part of the day to ensure even drying and prevent defects.

Kenyan coffees are classified by size. AA beans are the largest size. AA grade coffees are those that are 17/18 screen size, meaning that they are larger than 7.2 millimeters.

We enjoy this coffee most prepared as a quick extraction pour-over, since it emphasizes its tartiness and juicy mouthfeel. 

Region: Kibugu, Embu

Producer: Gicherori factory

Altitude: 1650-1800m

Variety: batian, ruiru 11, SL28, SL34 

Process: washed

Taste notes: black currant, oolong tea, lemongrass

Please note that 250g bags can be shipped in kava boxes as an additional option. All grind sizes are approximate and in relation to the equipment we use. Grind size or setting might differ from your equipment preferences. If not certain order beans as we can't accept returns for pre-ground coffees. Thank you for understanding.