Coffea arabica var. SL34

What is Coffea arabica var. SL34? Like its sibling SL28, SL34 is a variety selected by the Scott Agricultural Laboratories in Kenya during the 1930s. It was chosen from a single tree on the Loresho Estate in Kabete, Kenya, and is believed to have a Typica-like genetic background, which distinguishes it from the Bourbon-heavy lineage of SL28.

Coffee SL34 is widely celebrated for its robust performance and exceptional cup quality. It is known for producing a cup with a heavier body and a more pronounced, citrus-like acidity compared to other varieties. This combination of weight and brightness makes it incredibly versatile, performing beautifully in both filter and espresso preparations. It is a favorite among roasters for its ability to maintain its character across various roast levels.

Agronomically, SL34 is well-suited to the high-altitude, volcanic soils of Kenya. However, like SL28, it is not resistant to common coffee diseases. Farmers must be diligent in their management practices to ensure the health of the trees. Despite these challenges, the high market value of SL34 coffee ensures that it remains a primary choice for many Kenyan producers who are committed to quality.

In practice, SL34 is a pillar of the specialty coffee world. It provides the backbone for many of the world's most highly rated Kenyan coffees. When you drink a coffee that features SL34, you are experiencing a variety that has been refined over decades to deliver a consistent, high-impact flavor profile that defines the Kenyan coffee experience.