Kenya Thika Karatu

Cup Score: 90.5

ORIGIN: Thika, Kiambu
ALTITUDE: 1890 meters
PRODUCER: Karatu Coffee Factory
VARIETY: Bourbon Types
PROCESSING: Washed

Peaches & Cream, Baking Spices, Brown Sugar

Upon evaluating the Karatu coffee, we were immediately struck by its alluring aromatic profile. The dry fragrance exhibited enticing notes of rich dark sugars intermingled with hints of dark fruit that suggested an impending juicy sweetness. As the brew was prepared, the wet aroma released an appealing sweetness reminiscent of unrefined sugars such as raw cane sugar and whole cane sugar, with subtle accents of dried currants.

In the tasting, we identified flavors evocative of a cinnamon-brown sugar sauce, imparting a delightfully sweet-spiced finish that lingered pleasantly on the palate. As the coffee cooled, tart fruit notes akin to green grapes emerged, complemented by a luscious peaches and cream character that contributed depth and nuanced complexity.

The Karatu coffee exhibited an exceptionally well-balanced and refined flavor profile that engaged the senses through its aromatic intricacies and layered taste experience. It would undoubtedly satisfy the discerning palates of specialty coffee enthusiasts.

Farm Details

Karatu Coffee Factory is a cooperative mill located near Gatundu town in Kenya's fertile Thika District. Established in 1965, it serves over 1,000 smallholder farmers from the surrounding villages of Karatu, Gitwe, Kibiru and Kigaa.

More than just a mill, Karatu provides its members with essential resources like access to financing for farm reinvestment and expert agricultural training. The factory's prime location at 1,890 meters elevation allows it to utilize the clean waters of the Rwabura River for coffee processing.

With its decades of experience, community-driven mission and exceptional coffees, Karatu exemplifies the best of Kenyan coffee production.

Shipping and Roasting Speed

We roast coffees fresh to order, and fulfill orders with roast dates within 5 days of being roasted. Please allow us up to 2 business days to roast, package, and ship your order. Once your package is in the hands of the postal carrier, typical transit times are 1-5 days depending on location.