The French Mission variety arrived in Kenya in 1892–1893, brought by French missionaries. This heirloom Bourbon variety has avoided modern selective breeding, preserving its original flavor character. Chania Estate is one of the few remaining producers of this historic variety in Kenya.
This Peaberry (PB) lot represents a rare natural mutation where a single bean develops inside the cherry, concentrating the flavor. Grown at 1,525 meters on Chania Estate's red volcanic soils rich in organic matter and ideal for coffee cultivation the French Mission variety produces a cup of remarkable complexity.
The washed process hand picking, pulping, fermentation, rinsing, and sun drying on raised beds is carefully managed by Boyce's 30-year-experienced wet mill manager and his team of 40 permanent employees. During peak harvest, up to 300 seasonal workers join to ensure timely and efficient processing.
The Harries family has been farming in Thika since 1904, with Boyce Harries representing the 5th generation. Belco has been buying directly from Boyce since 2017, a partnership that supports his commitment to preserving heritage varieties like French Mission.
