Kenya Coffee Grades

Kenyan coffee grades explain how green coffee beans are classified before export. The grades are based on bean size and shape to help buyers understand what type they’re purchasing. 

Kenya is known worldwide for its bright flavours of berries and fruit. Did you know that Kenyan coffee beans are one of the most popular single-origin beans in the world? This is thanks to their rich flavours and aromas.

Throughout this blog, we will explore everything you need to know about Kenya coffee grades, including the history of Kenyan coffee. To find out more, read on!

What Do Kenya Coffee Grades Mean?

Kenyan coffee grades are measured using screen sizes based on bean shape and size.

These grades are given to the Kenyan coffee beans before the roasting process to determine the size of the beans. Kenyan coffee beans are graded based on their size and physical characteristics, not necessarily their flavour.

What Is Kenya AA Coffee?

Kenya AA coffee (also known as Arabica coffee) is one of the most common types of coffee plants grown across the world.

Kenya AA coffee beans are associated with high quality because they: 

• Have a unique flavour profile
• Grown in excellent conditions 
• Are visually uniform 
• Are easy to sort for defects 

AA does not necessarily mean better flavour, as it depends on growing and processing conditions, not just size. 

What Is Kenya PB (Peaberry) Coffee?

PB stands for peaberry, which occurs when only one bean develops inside the coffee cherry instead of two. 

Peaberries are often: 

• Rounder and denser
• Described as having a concentrated flavour 
• Pretty rare (about 5-10% of a harvest) 

Is Kenya AA Better Than AB?

Not necessarily. Kenya AA beans are larger than AB, but both can produce a rich flavour and excellent cup quality.

The key differences are: 

• Bean size 
• Flavour from altitude and processing

Does Coffee Grade Affect Taste?

Grade does not directly affect taste. Kenya coffee grade influences: 

• Roast consistency 
• Visual quality 
• Price 

Kenyan coffee is therefore known for its acidity, berry notes, and complex flavour profiles. 

Flavour is affected by: 

• High-altitude growing 
• Processing
• Roast level 
• Variety 

Why Are Kenyan Beans Graded by Size?

The grading system supports Kenya’s auction structure and ensures transparency in the export market. Standardised size categories help buyers compare lots more easily, set accurate prices, and maintain consistent quality expectations across international shipments.

Grading is used because: 

• Larger beans tend to roast more evenly 
• Uniform beans are easier to export and price 
• It simplifies classification at auction 

Kenya Coffee Grades vs. Quality 

Grade = physical classification 

Quality = flavour 

Facts About Kenyan Coffee

Here are our top 5 facts that we believe everyone should know about Kenyan coffee:

1. The first coffee plants were brought to Kenya in 1893 by French missionaries.
2. Kenyan coffee beans are graded based on size and quality. The grading is done when beans are still green to ensure the roasting is accurate and consistent.
3. Most Kenyan coffee beans are processed using the wet method. The washed coffee process involves pulping cherries, fermenting them twice, and carefully washing them to develop their complex flavours.
4. The best type of Kenyan coffee grade is AA. It's grown at elevations higher than 6,600 feet and is known for its bright acidity and floral notes. However, the lowest quality grade is MH/ML.
5. Kenyan coffee is known across the world for its high quality, vibrant acidity, full body, and unique flavour profiles.

Growing Conditions of Kenyan Coffee Beans 

Kenyan coffee beans thrive under specific growing conditions that contribute to their distinctive, high-quality flavour profile.

Most Kenyan coffee is grown at heights between 1,400 and 2,000 meters above sea level, qualifying for the Strictly High Grown (SHG) status. High altitude growing slows down bean development, allowing complex sugars and acids to form.  

The ideal temperature range is between 15 and 24°C, with maximum day temperatures rarely exceeding 30°C and night temperatures staying above 15°C. 

Kenya benefits from annual rainfall of 1,000-1,200 mm, well-distributed throughout the year, followed by a 1-2 month dry period at the end of the harvest season. This drier period helps cherries mature evenly and improves bean quality. 

Together, these conditions contribute to the high-quality, bright, and complex flavour of the coffee beans, making Kenyan coffee one of the most popular types in the world.

Kenya Coffee Beans at Crosby Coffee

Here at Crosby Coffee, we pride ourselves on sourcing 100% Arabica beans from reputable farms around the world. We focus on building strong relationships with coffee producers to ensure ethical practices and access to premium lots each harvest season.

We offer a wide range of coffee beans, including Kenyan Christmas Coffee. This festive bean blend has notes of candied fruit, citrus, and Maltesers, creating a rich yet balanced brew. 

The coffee cherries are carefully handpicked, processed, and sun-dried on raised beds, with water from the Kamiti River nourishing the rich soils. This blend offers the perfect balance between flavour and body. Try our Christmas Kenyan coffee beans today and see for yourself!

For those of you who enjoy Kenyan coffee year-round, our Getina Keynan coffee offers a light roast, with tasting notes of blackcurrant jam, cream, and citrus fruit. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What are the main Kenyan coffee grades?

Kenyan coffee grades include: E, PB, AA, AB, C, TT and T. 

Does coffee grade affect flavour?

Grade affects bean size, not flavour. Flavour depends on altitude, variety, and processing. 

What is the best coffee grade in Kenya?

AA is deemed the best Kenyan coffee grade. Grown in elevations higher than 6,600 feet, you can expect bright acidity and floral notes. 

Is Kenyan coffee always acidic?

Most Kenyan coffee beans are of bright acidity due to the high altitude at which they’re grown. However, roast level can reduce coffee acidity if you prefer bitterness in your cup.