Microlot Series: Mburugu

BACKGROUND STORY:

Mburugu’s Coffee Farm is a family-owned estate in South Imenti, Meru County, established in the 1940s by two pastoralist brothers who settled in the area and intermarried within the local community. Today, the six-acre farm is managed by Mr. Joel Mburugu, who continues the family legacy of coffee cultivation.

The farm grows SL28, SL34, and Ruiru 11 varieties, with Ruiru 11 making up half of the production. It sits on fertile red volcanic soil, benefits from bimodal rainfall (about 1,400mm annually), and follows a biennial harvesting cycle from April - June and November - December. Seasonal labour supports harvesting, sorting, and grading, with up to 50 workers engaged during peak seasons.

Mburugu Farm processes coffee on-site using water from River Gatauga. Equipped with a pulper, a recirculation system, and raised drying beds, the farm primarily uses the washed method but is open to alternative processing on request. Sustainable practices such as wastewater soak pits, mulching, and agronomic training from the Ministry of Agriculture support its long-term stewardship.

Despite challenges like fluctuating prices and high input costs, Mburugu’s Coffee Farm remains committed to producing quality coffee while safeguarding the environment, carrying forward its generational legacy.

WHY THIS COFFEE IS SPECIAL:

The Winning Coffee at the Kenya Barista Championship 2025

This coffee earned its place on the championship stage, powering the routine that won theKenya Barista Championship 2025. Grown on the fertile red volcanic soils of South Imenti, Meru, and nurtured by clean waters from River Gatauga, it represents the perfect harmony of terroir, tradition, and innovation.

Carefully cultivated from SL28, SL34, and Ruiru 11 varieties, each bean was handpicked, meticulously washed, and sun-dried on raised beds. The result is a cup bursting with bright citrus acidity, floral aromatics, and a smooth, balanced body - qualities that captured the judges’ attention and helped secure the national title.

More than a coffee, this is a champion’s choice, a showcase of Kenya’s finest flavours, crafted with passion and dedication at Mburugu’s Coffee Farm.