Hacienda Candelaria, from Alajuela, Costa Rica

Hacienda Candelaria stands as a remarkable example of successful evolution, attributed to a pivotal decision they made in the past. Their commitment to the local community shines through various initiatives, including the sponsorship of a school and soccer field.

Among their offerings is the washed Estate lot, a perfect example of the Classic segment. This coffee presents a balanced and stable profile, increasingly rare to find in Costa Rica due to decreasing overall production and rising prices, even affecting specialty grades. After pulping and 36 hours of fermentation, the coffee is fully washed and dried using a combination of patio and drying machines, resulting in a traditional clean washed coffee with an intriguing fruity touch in the cup profile. Falling under the Strictly Hard Bean category with European Prep, the coffee benefits from its high altitude origin.

Hacienda Candelaria’s long history of coffee craftsmanship, combined with its excellent location and continuous innovation, results in exceptional, well-balanced coffees. Over 70% of their annual production comes from the highlands, showcasing the farm’s commitment to quality.

In addition to their pursuit of excellence in coffee production, Hacienda Candelaria also values sustainability. The farm preserves a large presence of secondary rainforest and fosters a biodiverse environment, emphasizing the importance of respect for animal life. The region’s soil, enriched with volcanic ash and organic matter, plays a crucial role in promoting robust root systems and moisture retention, resulting in exceptional coffee growth.