PROFILE: Chocolate, plum, guava, red fruits, citric acid, tangerine.
HISTORY:
This Red & Yellow Caturra is one of the flagship coffees produced at El Vergel Estate, located in the microlot next to the washing station, and surrounded by Guava trees, this coffee profile has been one of the most intense and fruity coffees developed by the estate. Planted in 2016 and 2018 with a quantity of more than 40.000 plants, this lot has been one of the best of the estate to experiment with processing bigger lots. Back in 1995, the Bayter Family rolled up their sleeves and dove headfirst into the agricultural scene at El Vergel farm. Avocado was their main squeeze, but when avocado prices took a nosedive in 2006, they knew it was time to shake things up. So, they tossed some coffee varieties into the mix – catimore, red, yellow caturra – and boom, a coffee empire was born! Fast forward to 2016, and with a little guidance from coffee guru Miguel Jimenez, they planted specialty coffee varieties, setting the stage for some serious coffee greatness. Then, in a stroke of genius, they embraced natural coffee processes in 2018, tinkering with fermentation control like mad scientists in a lab. And let's not forget their claim to fame – the Koji fermentation process, a game-changer in the green coffee game! Now, meet the dynamic trio behind the scenes: Martha Montenegro, along with her coffee-savvy partners Elias and Shady. Together, they're not just brewing coffee; they're brewing up a whole community revolution! Their mission? To blend tech magic with coffee passion and sprinkle a little extra joy into the lives of everyone at El Vergel Estate.
PROCESS DESCRIPTION:
The journey of Guava Banana coffee begins with the careful selection of ripe Red and Yellow Caturra cherries, ensuring exceptional quality from the renowned El Vergel Estate in Fresno, Tolima, managed by farmers Elías and Shady Bayter. The beans undergo a 48 to 60-hour anaerobic fermentation, which enhances their unique flavor profile. Initially dried in the sun on raised beds in a "Marquesina" until they reach 30% moisture, the beans then move to mechanical drying in circular dryers at temperatures below 45°C until they achieve 18%-16% moisture. After a pre-stabilization stall to intensify flavors, the drying process is completed mechanically until optimal moisture is achieved. The beans are then stabilized for 45 days in GrainPro bags, ensuring consistency and quality. This meticulous natural anaerobic process results in a rich and complex flavor profile with notes of chocolate, plum, guava, red fruits, citric acid, and tangerine. Guava Banana coffee exemplifies the expertise and dedication in coffee processing, offering a distinctive and delightful coffee experience.
