Today, we’re brewing something a bit special—Gachatha AA from the Nyeri region of Kenya, roasted by the legends at Cloud Picker Coffee. If you haven’t heard of them, they’re Dublin’s very own micro-roastery, and they know their beans. What started as a coffee trip to Vietnam in 2013 has now become a mission to bring some of the world’s best coffee back to Irish shores, all while staying sustainable and eco-friendly. And let me tell you, they’ve nailed it with this one.
The Beans: An Orchard in a Cup
Let’s break it down. This Gachatha coffee tastes like a stroll through a fruit orchard: Apricot, Jasmine Tea, and a splash of Blackcurrant Cordial. It’s everything you’d want in a light, refreshing brew. The beans come from the Gachatha Farmers Co-operative Society, a group of 900 farmers who work 391 acres in Nyeri. The varieties—SL28, SL34, and Ruiru 11—are grown at a lofty 1800-2100 MASL, ideal for producing those bright, vibrant flavours.
The Process: Wash and Care
These beans undergo a washed process, bringing out those clean and crisp notes that make this coffee so distinctive. The Gachatha Factory is all about sustainability, using soak pits to manage wastewater and protect the local fresh water supply. The community also focuses on preserving indigenous plants, which helps maintain the local wildlife—so this coffee isn’t just delicious, it’s eco-conscious too.
The Brew: My Chemex Adventure with Cloud Picker’s Magic
I ran these beans through my Chemex, trusting the team at Cloud Picker had roasted them to perfection (and they didn’t disappoint). The aroma hits you first—fruity and floral, with a burst of freshness that feels like summer in a cup. The first sip? It’s like you’ve bitten into a juicy apricot, followed by that soft jasmine note, and a hint of blackcurrant that lingers just long enough. It’s got that clean, tea-like quality that only a Chemex can highlight, and the flavours are bright and layered.
I drank this tidy wee brew from my Le Creuset Stoneware Mug – check me out using all French words.
The Farmers: From Tree to Cup
What’s impressive about the Gachatha Co-op is the dedication of these farmers. Each one manages small plots, often less than a hectare, balancing coffee with other crops to make a living. With only nine permanent staff at the factory, every cherry is weighed, every farmer is paid fairly, and every detail is checked. You know you’re drinking something crafted with care and pride. It’s that kind of story that makes every sip feel just a little bit better.
The Verdict: A Light Brew with Big Flavor
If you’re looking for something delicate, fruity, and downright refreshing, this Gachatha coffee is it. It’s the kind of brew you take your time with, savouring every sip as the flavours unfold. Whether you’re a Chemex pro or just enjoy a bit of coffee experimentation like me, it’s a must-try. And hey, if nothing else, you’ll get a photo of that bright, golden pour that’ll make all your Instagram followers jealous.
Big props to Cloud Picker Coffee for bringing this gem to Dublin—these guys know how to pick and roast, and I’m lucky enough to brew it at home. Cheers to good coffee, great mornings, and the kind of cup that makes you want to hit repeat.
