Origin
Kiambu County, Kenya
Kiambu County, situated just north of Nairobi in Kenya's Central Highlands, is a historic hub for coffee cultivation and specialty production. Introduced by missionaries in the late 19th century, coffee thrived in Kiambu due to its red volcanic soils, elevations of 1,500 to 2,000 meters, consistent rainfall, and cool nights. These conditions allow for slow cherry maturation, enhancing flavour depth. During the British colonial era, large estates dominated early exports, focusing on SL28 and SL34 varietals known for exceptional quality. Post-independence land reforms shifted production to smallholders, fostering cooperatives like Gititu and Mugaga. Despite urbanisation pressures from Nairobi, Kiambu remains a cornerstone of Kenyan coffee, renowned for its high-acidity, complex profiles with blackcurrant, citrus, and floral notes. The region blends legacy estates with cooperative networks, upholding quality through meticulous processing, traceability, and farmer innovation.