KENYA AA THIRIKU

Roast            Medium / All Brewing Method
Region         Nyeri
Varietal      SL28, SL34, Batian, Ruiru 11
Altitude     0 – 1918
Process      Fully Washed
Co-op          The Thiriku Farmers’ Cooperative Society
Grade         AA
Cup Score  86.25

Tasting Notes
Sweet honey, blackcurrant, and passionfruit notes throughout. Orange acidity and smooth syrupy body carries through to a toffee, and orange juice finish.

The Thiriku Farmers’ Cooperative Society (FCS), established in 2000 after splitting from a larger union, operates a single factory named Thiriku. Situated in Nyeri County at the foothills of the Aberdares mountain range, the factory benefits from an optimal location for coffee cultivation. This region’s rich volcanic soil and favourable climate contribute significantly to the quality of the coffee produced by Thiriku FCS, making it a notable name in the Kenyan coffee industry.

The processing techniques at Thiriku are designed to ensure the highest quality coffee. The process begins with farmers meticulously sorting their cherries. They receive a ticket only after their cherries pass a quality check, which is necessary for delivery. The ripe cherries are processed separately from those that are sorted out, ensuring uniformity in quality. Thiriku employs a Penagos pulper, a modern piece of equipment known for its efficiency. After pulping, the parchment is fermented and then graded into P1, P2, P3, and P lights before being dried on one of the factory’s 136 drying tables, 10 of which are metallic. This drying process, lasting 10-16 days, is critical for developing the coffee’s unique flavours and aromas.

Thiriku FCS is committed to environmental sustainability and community welfare. The factory uses a Penagos eco-pulper, which significantly reduces water usage compared to conventional pulpers. This not only makes the processing more cost-effective but also minimises the environmental impact, conserving precious water resources. By incorporating such eco-friendly practices, Thiriku demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainable coffee production, ensuring that their methods are both economically viable and environmentally responsible. This approach not only supports the cooperative’s long-term viability but also benefits the local community by preserving the natural resources that are vital for their livelihoods.