Uganda · Variety
SL28 Coffee from Uganda
SL28 is one of the defining varieties of Ugandan coffee. Uganda grows coffee at 1,000–2,200 m (Robusta 1,000–1,500 m; Arabica 1,300–2,200 m) across regions such as Mount Elgon (Bugisu/Sipi), Rwenzori, West Nile, and SL28 — a Arabica of Scott Agricultural Laboratories selection (Kenya, 1935) from Tanganyika drought-resistant stock — occupies an important place in that landscape. Its preferred range of 1,400–2,100 m aligns with what Ugandan farms can offer, which is a large part of why the pairing works.
Agronomically, SL28 brings a demanding but rewarding profile — susceptible to rust and cbd; excellent drought tolerance — with moderate yields on a tall, broad leaves, bronze tips plant. In Uganda, where the harvest runs two crops; main october – february (elgon), march – june (rwenzori) and annual production is ≈6.5 million 60-kg bags, those traits shape which farms plant it and how its lots reach the export market through Mombasa (Kenya, via rail/road).
In the cup, Ugandan SL28 expresses both sides of its parentage: the variety contributes blackcurrant, grapefruit, tomato-vine acidity, wine-like body — the classic kenya profile, while Uganda's terroir adds the character the origin is known for — elgon washed arabica: blackberry, plum, brown sugar, winey acidity. Buyers comparing SL28 across origins will find the Ugandan expression distinct for exactly that reason.
Key facts
| Variety | SL28 |
|---|---|
| Species | Arabica |
| Lineage | Scott Agricultural Laboratories selection (Kenya, 1935) from Tanganyika drought-resistant stock |
| Optimal altitude | 1,400–2,100 m |
| Uganda growing altitude | 1,000–2,200 m (Robusta 1,000–1,500 m; Arabica 1,300–2,200 m) |
| Harvest season | Two crops; main October – February (Elgon), March – June (Rwenzori) |
| Disease resistance | Susceptible to rust and CBD; excellent drought tolerance |
| Bean size | Large |
| Typical Ugandan cup | Elgon washed Arabica: blackberry, plum, brown sugar, winey acidity. Rwenzori naturals: red fruit, cocoa, heavy sweetness. High-grown Robusta: clean chocolate, mild fruit — continental Fine Robusta leader. |
Related Uganda regions
SL28 Coffee from Uganda — frequently asked questions
Where in Uganda is SL28 grown?
Primarily across Mount Elgon (Bugisu/Sipi), Rwenzori, West Nile, at elevations of 1,000–2,200 m (Robusta 1,000–1,500 m; Arabica 1,300–2,200 m). The variety's preferred range of 1,400–2,100 m means the higher zones tend to produce the most expressive lots.
What does Ugandan SL28 taste like?
Expect the variety's core character — blackcurrant, grapefruit, tomato-vine acidity, wine-like body — the classic kenya profile — shaped by Uganda's terroir toward elgon washed arabica: blackberry, plum, brown sugar, winey acidity.
When is SL28 from Uganda available fresh?
The Ugandan harvest runs two crops; main october – february (elgon), march – june (rwenzori); fresh-crop lots typically reach consuming markets one to three months after milling, shipped via Mombasa (Kenya, via rail/road).
Volcana Coffee exports high-grown Catimor, Typica, and washed Fine Robusta from the Bolaven Plateau, Laos — washed, natural, and honey processed, SGS-inspected, with full export documentation. Cup our origin against any in the world.
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