Karindundu Nyeri - Smallholder Farmers - Washed Kenya - Kenya

Whole Bean
Roast: Light
Recommended Rest: 4-6 weeks from roast date
Tasting Notes: lime zest, red currant, pomelo, thyme

Origin Details

Region: Karatina, Nyeri County, Kenya
Elevation: 1700masl
Producer: Smallholder Farmers, Karindundu Nyeri
Process: Washed
Variety: SL28, SL34

ABOUT THIS COFFEE AND PRODUCER

The Karindundu factory is located in the lowland region of Mt. Kenya, 1 km from the town of Karatina in Kenya’s Nyeri district. There are a total of 513 active members (349 male, 164 female) contributing to annual production, each with an average of 300 trees and 0.5 acres. Farmers grow macadamia, banana, maize, and beans near their coffee. The factory sits within the fertile slopes of Mount Kenya—a region widely regarded as one of the country’s most important coffee-growing areas.

Karindundu operates under the Barichu Cooperative Society, a well-established cooperative known for its commitment to both quality and producer support. For importers, this structure offers a level of traceability and consistency that is critical when sourcing repeatable lots. The cooperative aggregates coffee from smallholder farmers—most managing small plots—and ensures that processing and quality standards are maintained at the factory level.

Farmers are paid competitive prices for their cherry, especially for higher-grade selections, which incentivizes careful harvesting and delivery practices. In addition, the cooperative provides ongoing training in agronomy, selective picking, and farm management. These initiatives directly impact cup quality while also supporting long-term sustainability at origin.

Environmental practices are also an important part of the picture. The cooperative encourages the use of organic inputs where possible and promotes responsible waste management, including the recycling of coffee by-products. This aligns with the expectations of many roasters and consumers who are increasingly focused on sustainability within the supply chain.

Equally important is the cooperative’s focus on social impact. Barichu has made efforts to support gender equity within its membership, creating opportunities for female farmers to participate more actively in both production and decision-making. From an importing standpoint, these initiatives contribute to a more resilient and stable producer base—something that ultimately benefits the entire supply chain.

This coffee uses a traditional washed process where the coffee is de-pulped, washed, and then dried on raised beds.

WHY WE SELECTED THIS COFFEE

We’re excited to kick off our second Kenyan coffee for this year with a beautiful coffee from Karindundu Washing Station in Nyeri. This lot is made up entirely of SL 28 and SL 34, offering a particularly clear expression of the varietals that have made Kenya coffees so highly regarded.

With a traditional washed process, the cup feels transparent and classic in the best way. Aromatic lime zest leads on the nose before giving way to red currant juice, a profile that feels deeply characteristic of this style of Kenya coffee. Sweet pomelo adds another layer of complexity, while soft herbal notes of thyme bring depth and character.

It’s an exceptional lot that captures the clarity and vibrancy we look forward to every Kenya season.