Juicy, jammy and expressive, this year’s AA lot from Gura is nothing short of delicious. Tropical guava notes greet your palate with the first sip, followed by a sweet strawberry and fudge finish. The Gura Factory, located next to the Gura River—reputed to be the fastest river in Africa—receives cherries from approximately 500 smallholding farmers. These farmers, most of whom cultivate less than one hectare of land, are based in Nyeri County at the foothills of Mount Kenya. The region’s high elevations, mineral-rich soil and consistent temperatures across the fertile central highlands create ideal conditions for high-density coffee seed growth. This renowned factory is managed by the larger Othaya Farmers Cooperative Society, which manages 17 additional factories receiving cherries from more than 14,000 farmers. Rather than separating lots by varietal, the factory grades and separates them based on seed size, defect count and cup score. Coffees of the largest size, lowest defect count and highest cup score are graded AA. Unsurprisingly, these coffees have earned an excellent reputation and command the highest prices. These coffees are also processed using the classically Kenyan, “double washed” method, a practice widely regarded as the gold standard. This method amplifies the vibrant qualities we adore in this coffee. Additionally, the uniformity in seed size ensures consistent heat transfer during roasting, resulting in even extraction and enhanced flavor clarity in the cup. Gura AA coffee bursts with sweet, bright and ripe fruit notes, showcasing the best of the region’s profile. It’s a shining example of Kenya’s exceptional coffees and a true pleasure for us to share.