LAST SPLASH

WASHED LOTS:
Last Splash always features washed processed coffees. These are lots in which the fruit and sticky mucilage layers of the coffee cherry are removed after being picked fresh. It is a multi-stage process involving floating cherries in water and then using a de-pulper, which might happen directly at the farm or at larger washing stations. Following a final washing stage, the cherry seeds will be dried on patios or raised beds.

While experimental processes are increasingly ubiquitous in specialty coffee circles, I want to always have a washed process on our menu. It is partially because on most mornings, I crave their brilliant clarity and vibrancy.  But also because they can offer a level of complexity and delicate body that will always having you reaching for the cup's last splash. 

You might wonder, why do I love washed lots? Well to draw upon The Breeder’s lyrics, it is pretty simple: “we have come for light, wholly, we have come for light, it's true”.

ORIGIN:
Gititu Farmers Cooperative Society (FCS) owns and operates Gititu wash station or 'factory' in Gitunduri, Kiambu. The name “gititu” originates with Kikuyu word for “big forest,” a reference to the area's once-abundant forests. The Cooperative was founded in 1954 and is one of the oldest in all of Kiambu. The operative a total of 8 factories including Gititu Factory, which has been in operation since 1957. Many of the staff at Gititu Factory have been working there for decades, and the attribute Gititu’s success to the FCS’s producer focused mandates. 

At the station, fresh cherries are pulped and fermented for approximately 48 hours. Then washed and graded in grading channels. The station focuses on both raking and shade covering during the hottest part of the day to ensure slow and even drying. 

FLAVOUR:
What better way to celebrate warm temperatures than a bright and sunny tasting Kenyan lot! Gititu delivers big citrus flavours of tangerine and ruby red grapefruit juice. There are nice lush aromatics with jasmine and hibiscus on the nose. The body is big with some jammy apricot notes. The finish lingers long with notes of creamy vanilla, molasses and cooked peaches.