The Farm
We recently purchased 14000 square meters in the lush growing region of Tarrazu, Costa Rica in 50/50 partnership with one of the most innovative growers in the region. At about 1,980 meters above sea level, these 3.46 acres are covered 40% by natural forest with the rest being covered by several varietals of coffee including SL-28, Geisha and Catuai. Electricity, water and internet are all available on the property, also posing a potential opportunity for a small coffee cabin in the future.
However, why did we decide to purchase a coffee farm? How come we didn’t just leave it as the status quo? What are our goals?
1.) Focus on Quality At The Potential Expense of Yield
Farming is a risky business. Climate change, storms, and the commodity coffee market all play a role in their bottom line. Luckily, as roasters, we are diversified to fund risky varietals such as Geisha, oosh-oosh and Milenium. These coffees are incredible in the cup and are often varietals that do not produce quantities consistently large enough for huge export. Additionally, we plan on planting avocado, peaches, apples, granadilla as fruit for the property. We plan on planting several natural plants to attract Quetzals to the property as well.
2.) Cultivate Culture of Organic and Regenerative Agriculture In Tarrazu
Once again, farming is a risky business. Organic certifications and growing processes are expensive and not always correlated with financial incentives. Not every coffee roasting company has an owner who is also a farmer, and we are extremely lucky to have Ian Beger as our Farm Director. Ian has a degree in Controlled Environment Agriculture and also is the Chief Agronomist at Castle Hot Springs, where he focuses on farm to table agriculture. Ian soil analysis, plant sap analysis and continued modification with the philosophy that maximizing photosynthesis creates a healthy immune system and yield for plants organically.
3.) Create Educational Outpost For Our Team
As a specialty coffee company, the knowledge and camaraderie of our team is important and directly related to our mission to bring our customers the best cup. Creating a place where our team members can train, experiment and grow is one of our main goals. We view this farm as our hands-on lab and our second home as a roastery.
