Region |
Tablón de Gómez, Nariño |
Producer |
Small Holders |
Processing |
Washed |
Altitude |
1800 - 2100 MASL |
Variety |
Caturra, Castillo |
Nariño is a department in southwest Colombia with a rich history rooted in coffee production. Coffee was first introduced to the region in the 19th century by the Spanish colonizers. Since then, it has become an important crop for the local economy and culture. The department's unique geography, which includes mountainous and lowland regions, provides ideal conditions for growing an array of cultivars. In recent years, Nariño's small farmers have begun to focus on producing high-quality, specialty coffees, leading to an increase in international recognition of the region.
This specific lot comes from the small municipality of Tablón de Gómez. Smallholder farmers have tended to the lush hillsides for generations, nurturing coffee plants that have come to define the region. The unique microclimates and terroirs of the region, along with the dedication of the smallholder farmers, have resulted in unique and highly sought-after coffees. The small municipality of Tablón de Gómez, a 2-hour drive from the city of Buesaco, is particularly renowned for producing some of the most exceptional micro-lots of coffee, some of which even appeared on the World Coffee Championship stage.
Nestled in the majestic mountains, the region's crisp and chilly air creates the perfect conditions for the cherries to slowly ripen, developing sweet flavours and incredible acidity. The frequent rains that grace the region may cause delays in the coffee drying process, but it is worth the care and patience as the beans are given a minimum of 20-25 days to dry to an ideal moisture level. The reason for this is that coffee must be dried on raised beds or patios in order to prevent mould and other potential contaminants, and the fluctuations in humidity and rain can make this process difficult. The farmers of this region, who are members of the Terra association and Cafes Especiales de Nariño Cooperative, take great pride in their craft and it shows in this wonderful lot of coffee. Drinking this coffee reminds us of a sweet fruit punch with a wine-like quality.