Kamavindi - Kenya [Natural SL-28]

Fact Sheet:
Roaster: Taith
Origin: Embu, Kenya
Producer: Peter Mbature and family – Kamavindi Coffee Lab
Varietal: SL-28
Process: Natural
Altitude: 1,650 - 1,750 masl
Flavor Profile: Plum · Red grapes · Red wine
Format: 200 g
Roast: Light (Omni)
Ideal for: Filter and Espresso

Why we like it: Its direct trade relationship with the farm and a very juicy natural profile, with red wine and plum notes that are unusual for Kenya.

Who should buy it: Ideal for those looking for a complex and versatile natural Kenyan coffee, with dark fruit and wine notes, suitable for both filter and espresso.

Kamavindi Coffee Lab is a specialty coffee farm and processing center located in the highlands of Embu County, near the slopes of Mount Kenya. The farm is managed by producer Peter Mbature and his family, and has developed a strong reputation for producing high-quality Kenyan coffees, with a focus on innovation and sustainability. During this year's visit, the team had the opportunity to meet the people behind Kamavindi Coffee Lab, explore the processing facilities, and delve deeper into their approach to coffee production. The visit also marked the beginning of a direct relationship, and the team is now proud to purchase coffee directly from the farm.

Kamavindi works with traditional Kenyan varieties like SL28 and SL34, combining them with experimental processing methods that include natural and anaerobic fermentations. Their approach balances precision and creativity, resulting in clean yet expressive coffees. The coffees typically showcase vibrant and complex profiles, with notes of red berries, stone fruit, red wine, and a panela-like sweetness. They are particularly appreciated for their juicy acidity, elegant structure, and layered fruity complexity.

In the cup, this lot stands out with notes of plum, red grapes, and red wine.

Taith is a community project that combines specialty coffee, ceramics, books, and Riso printing. Its approach is based on transparency, DIY ethics, and social impact.

The essentials:
- Coffee: They ethically roast light and sweet profiles, collaborating closely with producers.
- Impact: They donate 10% of their sales to NGOs and give coffee to local food banks.
- Community: They offer free pottery courses to support mental health and create employment opportunities.
- Philosophy: They value community over commodity, using art and coffee as tools for change.