Kelai Single Cultivar Traditional Kava
Epi's Legendary Cultivar: Fast-Acting, Blissful and Uplifting
A legendary cultivar from the island of Epi, Kelai is known for its remarkably uplifting, cerebral character that manifests almost instantly. Dr Vincent Lebot and colleagues described Kelai as "the pinnacle achievement" of cultivar selection, the result of centuries selecting for the most enjoyable characteristics. So prized on Epi that most is consumed locally rather than exported, Kelai is a favourite for social sessions and unwinding after demanding days.
Character
Intensely heady with pure mental brightness and minimal body heaviness. Fast onset with relatively short duration, popular for focused sessions and social gatherings. Known for a clean finish without lingering heaviness.
Taste & Aroma
Smooth and creamy with notes of ripe bananas, dark chocolate, and almonds. Mild cashewy sweetness with subtle zesty heat.
Traditional Grind Format
Peeled kava root ground into a medium-grind powder. Contains the root's indigestible fibres, so it needs to be kneaded and strained before drinking using a strainer bag.
| Type | Single cultivar |
|---|---|
| Origin | Epi, Vanuatu |
| Chemotype | 423165 |
| Processing | Fully washed, peeled, temperature-controlled drying |
| Laterals-to-stump | Natural (30-70%) |
| Lab results | Certificates of analysis |
Preparation
Use ~16g per cup with 200-250ml water. Start with two cups per session. Complete preparation guide.
Note
Traditional grind offers fuller aroma and flavour complexity. For a convenient no-strain option, try our instant kava range. Learn more about kava forms.
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Organically Grown Noble Kava
100% pure noble kava from pristine volcanic soils. Our farmers cultivate specific single cultivars in regions best suited for each variety. Each plant matures for at least three years using traditional organic farming methods passed down through generations.
Organically Grown Noble Kava
100% pure noble kava from pristine volcanic soils. Our farmers cultivate specific single cultivars in regions best suited for each variety. Each plant matures for at least three years using traditional organic farming methods passed down through generations.
Always Processed from Fresh
Each batch is made from kava harvested to order, never from old village-dried stock. Plants are inspected on arrival for the right cultivar, for freshness, and for contamination. Anything that doesn’t pass is rejected.
Always Processed from Fresh
Each batch is made from kava harvested to order, never from old village-dried stock. Plants are inspected on arrival for the right cultivar, for freshness, and for contamination. Anything that doesn’t pass is rejected.
Cleaned and Dried to Fresh Perfection
Freshly harvested roots are meticulously cleaned and dried using bespoke methods developed over years of research and refinement. The process preserves potency, fresh aroma, and active compounds. Each batch is then vacuum-sealed or nitrogen-flushed to lock in freshness.
Cleaned and Dried to Fresh Perfection
Freshly harvested roots are meticulously cleaned and dried using bespoke methods developed over years of research and refinement. The process preserves potency, fresh aroma, and active compounds. Each batch is then vacuum-sealed or nitrogen-flushed to lock in freshness.
Every Batch Tested
Our kava undergoes comprehensive testing using UHPLC analysis (superior to standard HPLC), full microbiological screening, and chemotype verification in an advanced in-house laboratory. Every batch comes with complete certificates of analysis and exceeds FSANZ Standard 2.6.3 requirements.
Check out our Certificates of Analysis
Every Batch Tested
Our kava undergoes comprehensive testing using UHPLC analysis (superior to standard HPLC), full microbiological screening, and chemotype verification in an advanced in-house laboratory. Every batch comes with complete certificates of analysis and exceeds FSANZ Standard 2.6.3 requirements.
Check out our Certificates of Analysis