Florence & Jessica Marigi's SL28 AB 🇰🇪

Malaki Estate was established in 1959 by Edward Marigi. Today, the estate is managed by his wife, Florence Mukuhi Marigi, and their daughter, Jessica.

Malaki Estate is one of the few remaining farms dedicated exclusively to cultivating traditional Kenyan coffee varieties. Situated at 1,900 meters above sea level, the farm benefits from rich red volcanic soils, abundant rainfall, and cool temperatures ranging from 55°F to 75°F. These ideal growing conditions contribute to the production of exceptional coffees.

In addition to coffee, the estate maintains a small dairy operation and grows macadamia nuts and avocados, reflecting a diverse and sustainable approach to farming.

The estate cultivates the renowned SL28 and SL34 coffee varieties, which were selected by Scott Agricultural Laboratories in the 1930s. These varieties are celebrated for their outstanding cup quality and continue to define some of Kenya's finest coffees.

Following harvest, the coffee is processed using Kenya's traditional washed method. Ripe cherries are carefully pulped and fermented for 36 to 48 hours, depending on the prevailing weather conditions. After fermentation, the coffee is thoroughly washed and transferred to raised drying beds.

The parchment is dried slowly over approximately 14 days, allowing the coffee to develop clarity and complexity. Throughout the drying process, it is regularly turned to ensure even moisture distribution and meticulously hand-sorted to remove any defective beans, resulting in a clean, vibrant cup that showcases the distinctive character of Malaki Estate.

In Kenya, green coffee is graded by bean size using a screen-sizing system. While the grade indicates the size of the beans, it does not necessarily reflect cup quality. This coffee is graded AB, meaning the beans passed through screen sizes 15 and 16, making them medium to large in size.

One of the most vibrant coffees we've tasted this year, this lot bursts with intense fruit sweetness and sparkling acidity. Expect notes of blackcurrant, red grape, and pomelo, supported by a lively, effervescent acidity that brings exceptional clarity and balance to every cup.