Kelai
A phenomenal single cultivar kava with an exceptionally heady character. This legendary cultivar originates from the island of Epi (Vanuatu), where it is considered to be by far the most desirable variety. So much so that most of it is consumed locally instead of being exported to far-away markets. It’s famous for its incredibly pleasant, mentally uplifting effects that manifest themselves almost instantly.
Kelai has one of the highest ratio of kavain to dihydromethysticin in the world, which helps to explain its clean profile, rapid onset of cerebral effects, minimal sedation and a fresh after-session feeling. As such, it is fantastic for resetting the mind after a busy or stressful day, simply enjoying the blissful effects of kavain, or calmly socialising with friends.
The pleasant and desirable charactetistics of kelai have been reconised by kava experts and scholars. In their seminal publication on kava, Dr Vincent Lebot, Dr Mark Merlin and Dr Lamont Lindstrom have singled out Kelai as perhaps the most pleasant and desirable kava in the world. It has been described as “the pinnacle achievement” of cultivar selection. As suggested by scholars, Kelai’s pleasant effects are a clear and logical outcome of centuries of conscious selections of kavain-rich mutations with the most enjoyable effects and the lowest potential for causing any undesirable side-effects.
Kelai is also known for its relatively mild, creamy and perhaps slightly fruity aroma (with hints of ripe bananas), as well as its unique flavour that combines nutty, almost cashewy or almondy smoothness and subtle sweetness with a bit of spicy heat (with some hint of ginger and black pepper), followed by a small dose of bitter zest.
Over the years we’ve had several opportunities to drink (and greatly enjoy) fresh (green) kelai on the islands of Vanuatu, but until now, it’s been impossible to source a sufficient quality of high quality kelai in the dried form. After several months of efforts, tests and attempts to overcome logistical challenges, we’ve finally manged to bring this extraordinary kava to New Zealand.
In order to present this single cultivar in its full glory, we are offering it at the natural ratio of around 70-80% stump to 20-30% lateral roots. This is how nature made it and we think she did a pretty good job.
Average chemotype: 421365