Uganda, Kasese, Natural

Roast level:  light

Characteristics: dates, brown sugar, clementine

Varietal:  SL14, SL28

Processing:  Natural

Region:  Kasese District, Rwenzori Mountains

Importer:  Genuine Origin

Size:  10 oz

From the importer:

Rising along the border of the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Rwenzori Mountains - also known as the Mountains of the Moon - form one of Uganda’s most dramatic coffee landscapes. Within this range lies Kasese, a district whose high-altitude communities cultivate exceptional Arabica in fertile volcanic soils and cool, misty microclimates. The region long served as a lifeline crop for rural households, and today it is rapidly becoming one of Uganda’s most celebrated sources of high-quality natural coffees.

Coffee has become one of the most economically significant crops in Kasese, grown across nearly all sub-counties and providing vital income for rural farmers. The area’s high elevation - over 1,200 meters above sea level - cooler temperatures, and abundant rainfall create ideal conditions for slow-maturing Arabica with pronounced sweetness and complexity.

Farmers here still rely heavily on coffee for their livelihood, and the region has recently benefited from new development initiatives, including a Geographical Indication (GI) program centered in Kasese. This GI protection helps formalize quality standards, traceability, and regional value, strengthening the reputation of Rwenzori coffee on the global stage.

Natural Processing:

After selective picking, fresh cherries are delivered to Kyagalanyi’s washing station where they undergo traditional natural processing. Whole cherries are sun dried on raised beds to preserve fruit flavors. Regular turning encourages even drying, boosts airflow, and prevents over-fermentation. Finally, an extended drying period develops the coffee’s rich, fruity character, emphasizing berry sweetness, deep chocolate, and wine-like aromatics.

Natural processing at high altitudes gives this Rwenzori lot its signature smooth, aromatic profile while honoring the region’s longstanding traditions.

SL14 And SL28 Varieties

The “SL” in SL14 and SL28 refers to Scott Laboratories, a Kenyan agricultural research center known for identifying and developing high-performing coffee varieties. SL28 was selected for its exceptional cup quality and drought resilience. SL14 was identified for its adaptability and consistently high-quality cup potential across East Africa’s varied environments.