This coffee is a Kii AA from the Kirinyaga region of Kenya, grown by smallholder farmers within the Rungeto Farmers Cooperative Society. Cultivated in fertile red volcanic soils at high altitudes, this coffee features the SL28, SL34, and Ruiru 11 varieties. It is processed using the washed method, involving careful pulping, fermentation, and drying on raised beds to ensure clarity. The flavor profile is characterized by vibrant acidity and structured sweetness, with distinct notes of clementine, nectarine, and amaretto.
Special Guests Coffee was founded in 2022 by Paul Ross, a two time UK Barista Champion who took the title in 2019. After stints at Origin Coffee, Kiss the Hippo, and Watch House, Paul launched a boutique roastery focused on rare micro lots, competition level beans, and exclusive varietals in extremely limited supply. The flagship café on Aybrook Street in Marylebone opened in late 2023, featuring two long silver counters: one dedicated to espresso, the other to a pourover brew bar offering 12 single origin coffees as hand brewed filter. The roastery also maintains an archive of carefully frozen coffees, giving standout lots a second chance to shine. A monthly subscription delivers 100g of rare, world class coffee to members.
