Muthigi-ini PB Washed, Kenya

The region of Kirinyaga benefits from fertile volcanic soils and high altitude, typically around 1,700 meters above sea level. Farmers delivering to Muthugi-ini factory grow SL28, SL34 and Ruiru 11, varieties renowned for their complex flavors, vibrant fruit notes and delightful acidity. Ruiru 11, developed in response to the catastrophic 1968 coffee berry disease (CBD) epidemic in Kenya, is a high-yielding coffee variety known for its compact stature, disease resistance, and excellent cup quality. Bred through a complex process that integrated these desirable traits, Ruiru 11 was designed to address both agricultural challenges and market demands. Remarkably, it begins to yield fruit within just two years, offering farmers a resilient and productive crop option.  

The ‘SL’ varieties are cultivars originally released by Scott Agricultural Laboratories (SAL) in the 1930s and 1940s. They quickly became the go-to trees for many growers in Kenya due to their deep root structure, which allows them to maximize scarce water resources and flourish even without irrigation. They are cultivated with a serious eye towards sustainability and Good Agricultural Practices, with minimal environmental impact where possible.  

Farmers are increasingly adopting Good Agricultural Practices that minimize environmental impact.  

Smallholders selectively handpick only ripe cherry and deliver it to Muthigi-ini Factory. Cherry is visually hand sorted to remove any defects and then floated to remove underripes. After intake, cherry is soaked for 24 hours then pulped and fermented for 12 to 18 hours. Following fermentation, parchment is washed in clean water and dried on raised beds or in solar driers for 7 to 14 days until it reaches the desired moisture level. During this time, workers carefully oversee the process, raking parchment frequently to ensure even drying and avoid excess moisture. 

Peaberries are the result of a natural mutation in the coffee cherry. Whereas there are usually two beans nestled together in each fruit, a cherry with a peaberry mutation only forms one bean. Thus, peaberries are a single, rounder bean.

Peaberry mutations occur in approximately 5% of all coffee. The beans are known for being rounder, smaller and denser, which can contribute to a more even roast color when handled correctly. Many people find peaberries to have a sweeter flavor profile, as well.

Since peaberries are a natural mutation that is not visible from the outside of the cherry, peaberries must be sorted out during the screen grading stage of dry milling. The peaberry screens have the smallest holes, which are oblong to allow the rounder beans to fall through.