Climpson & Sons: Kenya, Slopes of 8, Washed

Our sole Kenyan release for this year is the return of the Slopes of 8 smallholders - a fruit forward and complex Kenyan coffee from a famous collective of 8 neighbouring farmers in the Kirinyaga region.

The first year we bought this coffee with the intention of developing a closer working relationship with producers and to secure the rare opportunity of working with the same Kenyan coffee each year. Seeing these plans in action on our 2017 visit we have been so impressed with each subsequent harvest that this has become our most anticipated fresh arrival each year.

Working together with a local agronomist, the Slopes of 8 producers are continually improving quality by processing their own coffee and choosing to by-pass the central auction system. Rather than submitting their coffee to a large co-op or factory, this project allows the group to sell directly to exporters, oversee their own production standards and ensure that the improved prices are paid directly back to them. Not only do we see a more transparent cup quality but also a more transparent supply chain.

This years crop may bring the brightest flavour notes yet with grapefruit and berry acidity and a balanced honey sweetness.