Kenya C (Smaller, Lower Quality)

Kenya C coffee, graded below AA and AB, consists of smaller beans (screen size under 15/64 inches, ~6 mm) and is considered lower quality in Kenya’s stringent classification. Sourced from the same highland regions (1,500-2,000m) and SL28/SL34 varietals, it undergoes similar washed processing—depulping, fermentation, and sun-drying—but includes beans with minor defects or inconsistent sizing. The cup offers moderate acidity, with muted citrus, berry, or tea-like notes, and a lighter body. Scoring below 84 SCA, Kenya C is less vibrant, often used in blends or budget brews, lacking the complexity of higher grades but retaining some Kenyan character.