As our plane descended into Bogota, the anticipation among us, a group of coffee roasters, was palpable. We were embarking on a journey not just to any destination, but to the heart of Colombia’s coffee lands – a pilgrimage essential to our craft.
Our Colombian Coffee Adventure
Our first stop was Bogota, offering a glimpse into urban Colombian life, before heading to Pereira. Here, we met renowned Julio Andres, a local farmer, who introduced us to the Coffee Lab where our sensory journey began with coffee cupping. As we moved through the charming streets of Salento and Finlandia, each coffee shop told a story of tradition and modernity intertwined.
In Risaralda at the Finca Milan, we experienced the tranquility of rural life and the warmth of Colombian hospitality, epitomized by a starlit barbecue. The days spent at the farm were enlightening, revealing the detailed processes of coffee cultivation, from planting to picking.
Our exploration with Julio Andres took us through varying altitudes in Risaralda, revealing the profound impact of elevation on coffee cultivation. We started from lower altitudes, moving gradually upwards, witnessing the transformation in coffee varieties at each level.
In the lower altitudes, we observed coffee plants suited to warmer, more humid conditions. As we ascended, the varieties changed – the higher altitude beans grew slower, developing more complex flavors. It showcased how altitude plays a crucial role in the coffee’s taste profile, with higher altitudes often producing beans with higher acidity and a more nuanced flavor palette.
Our journey led us to Finca La Riviera and Buenos Aires, each farm presenting its unique approach to harnessing these altitude differences. At La Riviera, nestled within the lush landscapes of Risaralda, we experienced a farm emphasizing the importance of altitude in coffee, at Buenos Aires offered a different perspective, cultivation that perfectly blended traditional methods with innovative techniques.
These visits were not just about seeing the farms; they were immersive experiences. We tasted coffee from different altitudes, each cup a story of its origin. It was a sensory exploration, understanding how even a few hundred meters in elevation could alter the coffee’s character.
Our journey continued in Huila, where we met coffee personalities like Rodrigo Sánchez and Elkin Guzman. Visiting Monte Blanco and La Loma farms, we not only witnessed vast coffee plantations but also met the incredible women who are integral to the coffee industry.
The Roasters’ Perspective
For roasters, witnessing these processes was transformative. They grasped the depth of knowledge and experimentation involved in culturing and other innovative methods. It wasn’t just about following a set procedure; it was about understanding the science behind it and seeing how creativity in processing can lead to extraordinary coffee.
These insights were not just academic. They were experiential, providing us with valuable knowledge that could directly influence the roasting styles and techniques. As they tasted the coffee from these experimental processes, they could envision new possibilities for their blends and roasts.
Exploring Advanced Coffee Processes
One of the highlights of our journey was delving into the intricacies of modern coffee processes, particularly culturing. This method, gaining popularity among Colombian farmers, involves meticulous control and innovation in coffee fermentation. For roasters, understanding the nuances of culturing was enlightening. All the farmers presented us how precise fermentation techniques could significantly alter flavor profiles, creating a symphony of tastes and aromas in each bean.
Moreover, we explored various experimental coffee processes that are pushing the boundaries of traditional coffee farming. These methods, often a blend of science and art, are transforming how coffee is perceived globally. We learned how different processing methods, like natural, honey, and washed, affect the coffee’s acidity, body, and flavor.
An Enlightening Experience for Every Roaster
This part of our Colombian journey highlighted the importance of terroir in coffee. For the roasters, it was an invaluable lesson in how every element of the environment contributes to the final product’s taste. Understanding these nuances is crucial for refining your roasting techniques and for educating your customers about the diverse world of coffee.
Join us in discovering the diverse landscapes of Colombian coffee. From the valleys to the mountain peaks of Risaralda, experience how altitude shapes the soul of coffee.
Why Roasters Should Join This Journey
This trip was more than an exploration; it was a revelation of the coffee world’s intricacies. Here’s why every coffee roaster should experience this:
- Direct Connection with Farmers: Understanding the lives and challenges of the farmers enriches your perspective as roasters, adding depth and meaning to every bean you roast.
- Comprehensive Understanding of Coffee: From cultivation techniques to processing methods at various farms, roasters gain knowledge that refines their roasting techniques and inspires innovation.
- Experiencing Variety: Each farm presents unique coffee varieties and techniques, offering insights into how these factors influence flavor profiles.
- Building Sustainable Relationships: The trip is an opportunity to forge direct trade links with farmers, fostering a more sustainable coffee industry.
- The Complete Coffee Story: Grasping the journey from bean to cup deepens a roaster’s appreciation for their art, enabling them to share a richer story with their audience.
Our days in Colombia were more than just a tour; they were a deep dive into the soul of coffee. We returned not just with bags of beans, but with stories, relationships, and a renewed passion for our craft.
An Invitation to Explore and Learn
We extend an invitation to fellow coffee roasters and enthusiasts. Join us on this journey to discover the cutting-edge practices that are shaping the future of coffee. Understand the complexities of culturing, experience the innovation in coffee processing, and see how these can revolutionize the way you think about and roast coffee.
Our Colombian adventure was a testament to the evolving world of coffee – a blend of tradition and innovation. Be part of this journey and bring back not just coffee, but a treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration to elevate your craft.
