Coffee Series: DEeper Roots + KENYA 2026
Kenya Muinami: A Coffee Series Rooted in Relationship
Some coffees come to us through opportunity. Others come through relationship. Our work with Stephen Nendela at Muinami falls squarely into both.
We began working with Stephen in 2023, drawn to his thoughtful approach to farming, processing, and continual improvement. From the beginning, it was clear that his focus wasn’t on chasing trends or shortcuts, but on doing the work. Carefully paying close attention to detail and making intentional decisions at every step. The Kenya Muinami Coffee Series reflects that shared mindset and offers a deeper look at how one coffee can take on multiple expressions when handled with care.
Thoughtful Processing at Muinami
At Muinami, quality starts long before harvest. Stephen places a strong emphasis on selective picking, fermentation control, and precise drying, ensuring each lot is given the time and attention it needs. Rather than treating processing as a one-size-fits-all solution, he approaches it as a tool—one that can highlight different aspects of the coffee while still honoring where it comes from.
This series exists because of that intention. By separating lots and exploring multiple processing methods from the same harvest, Stephen creates space for the coffee to show its range without losing its sense of place.
One Coffee, Multiple Perspectives
The Muinami Series highlights how processing choices shape flavor while maintaining a consistent foundation.
The washed coffee leans into structure and clarity, offering the brightness and balance Kenya is known for.
The natural lot brings forward ripe fruit character and a rounder sweetness.
The honey releasing 1/27 process sits comfortably between the two, layering sweetness while preserving lift and complexity.
The anaerobic natural releasing 1/27 explores fermentation more deeply, adding texture and depth without overshadowing the coffee’s core character.
Each lot stands on its own, but together they tell a more complete story of Muinami.
Built Over Time
This series isn’t about a single release. It reflects an ongoing partnership built on communication, feedback, and trust. Working closely with Stephen allows us to better understand the decisions made at origin and to share coffees that feel intentional, expressive, and connected to the people behind them.
For Deeper Roots, Muinami represents what long-term sourcing can look like when relationships come first. For Stephen, it’s a chance to continue refining his approach and sharing the results with partners who value the work as much as the outcome.
Why We’re stoked about this series
Kenyan coffee often arrives with expectations already attached. The Muinami Series invites a closer look. One that respects tradition while allowing room for exploration. These coffees remind us that quality is built over time, shaped by experience, and strengthened through collaboration.
We’re proud to continue working with Stephen Nendela and to share the evolving story of Muinami. One harvest at a time.