Colombia is home to some of the world’s finest coffee, and my recent trip to Choachí, Cundinamarca, reaffirmed why. This journey was not just about exploring a new region but about forging a meaningful connection with a farm that embodies sustainability and quality coffee production. My destination was La Campesina Ecológica, an organic farm nestled in the Andean mountains, where tradition and environmental consciousness meet to produce exceptional coffee.
Discovering La Campesina Ecológica
Upon arriving at La Campesina Ecológica, I was immediately struck by the beauty of the land—lush greenery, crisp mountain air, and an unmistakable aroma of fresh coffee cherries ripening under the sun. The farm operates with a commitment to organic, chemical-free farming practices, ensuring that every step of production respects both the environment and the coffee itself.
The farmers at La Campesina have dedicated years to perfecting their methods, using natural composting, shade-grown techniques, and biodiversity conservation to maintain soil health and produce high-quality beans. Unlike large-scale industrial farming, their approach emphasizes patience and care, resulting in coffee that not only tastes incredible but also supports the surrounding ecosystem.
During my visit, I had the privilege of speaking with several farmers and learning about their deep connection to the land. Many of them have been growing coffee for generations, passing down knowledge and expertise that ensures each harvest is better than the last. Their dedication to maintaining biodiversity by planting native trees and allowing wildlife to thrive alongside their crops was truly inspiring. The symbiotic relationship between the land and the farmers creates a balance that is essential to producing sustainable coffee.
The Castillo Coffee Experience
One of the most exciting discoveries during my visit was their Castillo variety, a resilient and flavorful coffee bean that thrives in the region’s high-altitude conditions. This varietal is known for its balanced cup profile—medium acidity, rich body, and delightful notes of chocolate and citrus. The careful organic processing at La Campesina enhances these flavors, making it a standout choice for Summit Grounds.
Walking through the rows of coffee plants, I learned about the meticulous handpicking process the farmers use to ensure only the ripest cherries make it into the harvest. These cherries then undergo careful washing and drying, preserving their natural flavors without the use of synthetic chemicals. I was able to take part in the drying process, spreading out the coffee beans under the sun and watching as they slowly transformed into the foundation for an exceptional cup of coffee. It was inspiring to witness firsthand the dedication and expertise that go into producing each batch.
Maximizing the Use of the Coffee Fruit
Beyond sourcing organic Castillo coffee, we also discovered an innovative way to minimize waste and maximize the use of the coffee fruit. At La Campesina, we sourced **sun-dried coffee cherries**, also known as **cascara**, to brew a naturally sweet, low-caffeine beverage. Cascara is a byproduct of coffee production that is often discarded, but by repurposing these dried husks, we contribute to sustainability while offering a refreshing and unique drink option.
The cascara tea carries subtle notes of dried fruit and honey, making it a delicious and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional coffee. By utilizing the whole coffee cherry, we support waste reduction efforts and help farmers create additional revenue streams, reinforcing the importance of sustainable farming.
During my visit, I had the chance to taste freshly brewed cascara tea, prepared using a slow steeping method to extract its rich flavors. The drink was naturally sweet, light, and incredibly refreshing—an ideal option for those looking for a low-caffeine alternative with the essence of coffee. The farmers shared how incorporating cascara into their business model has not only reduced waste but also provided an additional source of income, creating a more sustainable and profitable future for their farm.
Bringing Organic Castillo Coffee & Cascara to Summit Grounds
My visit to La Campesina Ecológica was more than just an exploration; it marked the beginning of a new sourcing partnership for Summit Grounds. We are thrilled to bring their organic **Castillo coffee** and **cascara tea** to our customers, offering brews that reflect both the rich flavors of Colombia and the sustainable practices that make a difference.
Sourcing directly from farms like La Campesina allows us to support small producers, ensure fair compensation for their work, and provide coffee lovers with a truly unique experience. Every bag of our Castillo coffee and every cup of cascara tea tells a story—of tradition, sustainability, and the incredible people who make it all possible.
The Impact of Ethical Coffee Sourcing
By choosing to source coffee from small-scale farmers who prioritize sustainability, we are contributing to a positive shift in the coffee industry. Large-scale production often places profit over people and the environment, leading to deforestation, unfair wages, and the loss of traditional farming methods. By supporting farms like La Campesina Ecológica, we help maintain biodiversity, ensure fair wages, and promote a more ethical way of doing business.
Through Summit Grounds, we aim to educate consumers about the importance of responsible sourcing and how their purchasing choices can make a real difference. Every sip of coffee or cascara tea is an opportunity to support sustainable agriculture and protect the future of specialty coffee.
Taste the Difference
Bringing La Campesina’s organic Castillo coffee and cascara tea to Summit Grounds is about more than just great flavor—it’s about making a positive impact. By choosing these products, you’re supporting ethical farming practices and helping sustain a family-owned farm dedicated to ecological preservation.
We invite you to be part of this journey. Experience the richness of Castillo organic coffee and the refreshing taste of cascara tea, and taste the story of La Campesina Ecológica in every sip.
☕ Shop now and be part of the movement for sustainable, exceptional coffee.
Comentários