Peru - Huarmaca Microlot

This lot features the contributions  of five smallholder farmers located in Huarmaca, each contributing their expertise to produce exceptional coffee. Located in Peru’s northern highlands, Huarmaca offers ideal conditions for growing high-quality Arabica varieties like Caturra and Typica. The region’s high altitudes and cool climate contribute to the coffee’s vibrant acidity and unique flavor profiles. Prominent among this group of farmers is Yony Quispe, a former chef from Lima who turned to coffee farming during the pandemic. Yony’s culinary background is evident in his meticulous approach to coffee production.

On his farm, Yony hand-picks coffee cherries at peak ripeness and uses the flotation method to select only the best. The cherries are pulped with a motorized machine and fermented for 24 to 36 hours, depending on the temperature. Yony carefully monitors the fermentation process to ensure the desired flavor profile. The beans are then dried in a solar dryer, where Yony oversees the drying time to maintain quality. Yony’s commitment to sustainability sets his farm apart. He integrates shade trees and additional crops like citrus fruits, creating a diverse ecosystem that benefits the coffee plants. He uses living barriers to promote biodiversity and protect the soil, avoiding herbicides.