UGANDA BUGISU AA

Origin: Mount Elgon (Eastern Uganda)

Profile: Bold, Chocolatey, and Deeply Sweet

Bugisu AA is widely regarded as Uganda’s finest Arabica coffee. Grown on the slopes of Mount Elgon, an extinct volcano on the border with Kenya, these beans benefit from some of the highest altitudes in Africa (1,300 to 2,000 meters). The “AA” designation marks the largest bean size, ensuring a consistent and high-quality roast.

Unlike the wild, earthy Robusta often associated with the lowlands of Uganda, Bugisu is a Washed Arabica that shares more in common with its high-end Kenyan neighbors. However, while Kenyan coffee is famous for sharp acidity, Bugisu is prized for its heavy body and deep, darker sugar notes.

Flavour Experience

Body: Full, heavy, and syrupy—almost “creamy” on the palate.
Notes: Rich dark chocolate, molasses, and caramel, with a subtle, rustic dried fruit (raisin or fig) undertone.
Acidity: Medium and wine-like; much softer and more integrated than Kenyan varieties.
Finish: Long, sweet, and clean with a hint of cedar or spice.

Best Enjoyed As

Uganda Bugisu AA is an “all-rounder” that provides a more traditional, “strong” coffee experience without being harsh:

French Press: The heavy body of Bugisu is amplified by immersion brewing, making it exceptionally satisfying.
Espresso Base: It provides a thick, dark crema and a chocolatey sweetness that anchors a blend perfectly.
Medium-Dark Roast: While it performs well as a light roast, taking it a bit darker brings out the deep cocoa and caramelized sugar notes that make Bugisu famous.

The Terroir of Mount Elgon

The unique climate of Mount Elgon features a distinct dry season and high rainfall, which allows the coffee cherries to develop slowly. This results in a bean that is physically hard and dense, allowing it to withstand high roasting temperatures while maintaining its structural sweetness.