The Tattered Journal

In the lush landscapes of Acevedo, Huila, Colombia, the farm Villa Betulia stands as a beacon of innovation and passion in the specialty coffee world. It’s here that Luis Aníbal Calderón, a second-generation coffee farmer, has devoted his life to the pursuit of exceptional coffee varieties. His story is one of resilience, exploration, and a relentless desire to push the boundaries of what coffee can be.

Luis’s journey began early. At the age of nine, he started working on his father's farm, learning the trade that would eventually become his life’s passion. But the road to success was far from smooth. In 2011, facing the threat of losing his farm due to financial difficulties, Luis found himself at a crossroads. The prices he was receiving for his coffee on the C market barely covered the costs of production, let alone the loan repayments. It was during this challenging period that Luis approached his local Specialty Coffee Association, a move that would change the course of his career.

The association offered Luis a lifeline, agreeing to pay slightly above the C market price—enough to sustain him but not enough to reward his hard work fully. However, this modest support sparked something in Luis. In 2012, he planted 5,000 Gesha trees, a risky investment that took three years to bear fruit. But when it did, it transformed Luis’s perspective on coffee farming. He became a man on a mission, determined to convert his entire farm to exotic coffee varieties.

Fast forward to today, and Villa Betulia is a thriving hub of specialty coffee production, known for its wide array of unique and exotic varieties. Among them is the Maragesha, a coffee that has captured the imagination of adventurous coffee drinkers around the world.

The Maragesha variety is a testament to Luis’s dedication to exploration and experimentation. This extraordinary coffee is the result of a natural mutation—a cross between the renowned Gesha and Maragogype varieties—discovered right on the farm. Recognizing its potential, Luis cultivated this rare variety with meticulous care, ensuring it developed a distinct presence that sets it apart from anything else on the market.

The journey of Maragesha doesn’t end in the field. The coffee undergoes a complex natural carbonic maceration process that begins with a six-day anaerobic fermentation. The cherries are then hand-sorted and floated to ensure only the best make it through. They are placed in Grainpro bags during fermentation to stabilize temperature and allow CO2 levels to rise. This intricate process brings out the delicate and complex flavors that Maragesha is known for—tropical fruits, strawberry, and effervescent floral notes that dance on the palate.

Our relationship with Luis Aníbal Calderón spans over five years, during which we’ve seen his farm grow into a powerhouse of innovation in the coffee industry. Luis’s dedication to his craft is inspiring, and his farm is more than just a place of work—it’s an arboretum of possibilities. Each coffee from Villa Betulia tells a story of discovery, passion, and resilience.

Luis’s success hasn’t come without its challenges. A few years ago, he was at the brink of financial collapse after a bad deal on a farm purchase. It was with the support of Felipe at CofiNet that Luis was able to turn things around. Felipe helped him pay off part of his debt, allowing Luis to repay him with coffee deliveries as he could. This act of kindness solidified a bond of loyalty and mutual respect that continues to this day.

As we look to the future, we’re excited to see where Luis’s journey will take him next. His new cupping lab is a symbol of how far he’s come, and the coffees he’s producing are some of the most exciting we’ve ever tasted. With every harvest, Luis continues to surprise and delight us with his creativity and commitment to excellence.

For those seeking an unparalleled coffee experience, Maragesha from Villa Betulia is a must-try. It’s more than just a cup of coffee—it’s a testament to what’s possible when passion, innovation, and a deep connection to the land come together.

In the rolling hills near the town of Palestina in southern Huila, Colombia, lies a farm that has been a labor of love for Linarco Rodriguez and his family for over 25 years. Here, amidst the fertile volcanic soils and high altitudes of one of Colombia's most renowned coffee-growing regions, Linarco tends to his coffee plants with dedication and care, embodying a tradition of innovation and family heritage.

For Linarco, coffee farming isn't just a livelihood; it's a true family enterprise. Together with his mother, sister, and nephew, they form a tight-knit team that works tirelessly to cultivate exceptional coffees. Their commitment to quality and sustainability is unwavering, as they strive to bring a stable income to their family by partnering with specialty coffee buyers like Cofinet.

Linarco's journey into the world of coffee was not initially planned. He had his sights set on studying business administration in Bogota, Colombia. However, fate had other plans, as Linarco gradually realized that his true passion lay in the rich soils and fragrant blooms of his family's coffee farm. Thus, he embarked on a path of building a legacy rooted in Huila's coffee-growing traditions.

This month's subscription coffee from Linarco's farm is a testament to his dedication and expertise. It's a Tabi varietal, born out of Colombia's efforts to combat leaf rust, a resilient hybrid of bourbon, typica, and timor. Named "Tabi," meaning "good" in the Guambiano dialect, this coffee showcases the best qualities of its parentage while boasting increased resistance to leaf rust.

Crafted with precision, this coffee underwent open-air pre-fermentation for 24 hours, followed by 50 hours of anaerobic fermentation. The result is a cup brimming with crisp florals, bright citric acidity, and a deep tropical sweetness—a true embodiment of Linarco's dedication to his craft and his family's legacy in Colombian coffee.

As you savor each sip of this month's subscription coffee, let it serve as a reminder of the hard work and passion poured into every bean by farmers like Linarco Rodriguez, whose commitment to excellence shines through in every cup.

Denver boasts a coffee culture that few cities can rival. In part, Denverites’ values are to thank, as we love to support small businesses. But whether you’re a local or a tourist, these Denver coffee shops are community hubs that will welcome you with open arms and exceptional coffee. 

I’m a local who’s frequented countless coffee shops in Denver. In fact, before becoming a writer, I worked behind espresso machines for six years. So, sure — I’m a bit of a coffee snob. But thankfully, this city has no shortage of incredible cafes.

At the heart of the modern coffee revolution lies a family with a vision as rich and enduring as the beans they cultivate. As we reflect on the journey that brought us to the modern era of specialty coffee, we find ourselves indebted to the Peterson family and their unwavering commitment to excellence.

Their story begins amidst the verdant landscapes of Hacienda la Esmeralda, where Hans Elliot first assembled the sprawling estate in 1940. But it was Rudolph A. Peterson, a visionary Swedish-American banker, who saw beyond the pastures and glimpsed the potential of this land. In 1967, he took the reins of Hacienda la Esmeralda, transforming it from a cattle ranch into a beacon of coffee innovation.

The Petersons' journey was one of constant evolution. From dairy farming to the pursuit of coffee excellence, each step was guided by a deep respect for the land and a thirst for discovery. By the mid-1980s, as the aroma of coffee permeated the air, the Petersons made a pivotal decision to refocus their efforts exclusively on coffee cultivation. Little did they know that this shift would spark a revolution in the industry.

It was in the hushed whispers of the Mario lot that the magic truly began. Recognizing the exceptional quality of a select group of coffee trees, we dared to diverge from tradition. Microlots were born, each one a testament to the exquisite flavors waiting to be discovered. And then came the revelation—the world's first pure Gesha coffee, unveiled at the Best of Panama competition in 2004.

The response was nothing short of extraordinary. With prices soaring and demand skyrocketing, the Petersons stood at the forefront of a new era in coffee appreciation. But for us, this was just the beginning.

Today, we're reminded of the remarkable coffees that have graced our cups, each sip a testament to the Peterson family's dedication and expertise. From the misty slopes of Jaramillo Farm to the intricacies of meticulous processing, every brew tells a story of innovation and passion.

In the world of Colombian coffee, there are stories that transcend mere business ventures. They echo with the resonance of familial legacies, the tug of tradition, and the vibrant spirit of innovation. At the heart of such tales stands Felipe Arcila, a figure who embodies the hero archetype in the annals of Colombian coffee.

Felipe's journey is one of courage, vision, and a deep-seated connection to his roots. Despite initially straying from his family's coffee legacy to pursue a career in engineering halfway across the globe in Australia, fate intervened, leading him back to the rich soils of his homeland. It was there that Felipe's perception of coffee underwent a profound transformation.

Realizing the untapped potential for specialty coffee akin to the world of fine wines, Felipe embarked on a mission to redefine Colombian coffee. But his vision faced a formidable obstacle in the form of his father, Jairo Arcila, a titan in the Colombian coffee industry who harbored reservations about deviating from traditional practices.

Undeterred by familial skepticism, Felipe forged ahead, pioneering innovative farming and processing techniques that pushed the boundaries of what Colombian coffee could achieve. Through perseverance and unwavering dedication, he not only established himself as a trailblazer in the industry but also earned the respect of his father, who gradually recognized the merit of his son's vision.

The culmination of Felipe's journey materialized in the form of Jardines Del Eden, a flagship farm that symbolized a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. Here, amidst the lush landscapes of Colombia, Felipe cultivated an ethos of experimentation and excellence, producing coffees that captivated the senses and challenged conventions.

One such exemplar is the Sidra variety coffee, meticulously nurtured at Jardines Del Eden and subjected to a double anaerobic fermentation process under Felipe's discerning eye. The result is a brew that transcends mere beverage status, offering a sensory journey marked by nuanced flavors and intoxicating aromas.

Through the partnership with Felipe and Jardines Del Eden, we at Corvus have had the privilege of sharing in this extraordinary narrative. Each sip of coffee sourced from Felipe's farms is a testament to his unwavering commitment to quality and innovation—a legacy that continues to inspire us and coffee enthusiasts worldwide.

In Felipe Arcila, we find not just a visionary coffee producer but a steward of tradition and a catalyst for change. His journey reminds us of the profound power of passion, perseverance, and the profound connection between family, land, and a humble cup of coffee.

In the world of specialty coffee, there are relationships that transcend mere transactions. These connections are woven with threads of shared history, mutual respect, and a passion for excellence. Our journey with the Pacas Family is a testament to this bond—a narrative that intertwines the rich tapestry of their coffee legacy with our pursuit of exceptional flavors and experiences.

Stepping foot onto the Pacas estate for the first time, we were immediately struck by Maria and Alfredo's profound connection to their coffee trees. It was akin to witnessing a family reunion—each tree cherished, nurtured, and revered. As we explored their traditional growing methods, one thing remained constant: the distinct sweetness present in every cup of Pacas coffee. This profile, rooted in generations of expertise, captivated our senses and ignited our passion for their coffees.

But our relationship with the Pacas Family extends beyond the coffee itself. Maria and Alfredo take immense pride in their dynasty, tracing their coffee lineage back through five generations. Their grandmother's legacy as a pioneering coffee farmer in El Salvador laid the groundwork for the family's ascent in the industry. Today, as they steward the Pacas Family Estates, Maria and Alfredo prioritize not only quality but also the well-being of their workers. Their personal interest in their employees' lives reflects a commitment to social responsibility and community empowerment—a philosophy we wholeheartedly admire.

Within the sprawling expanse of the Pacas estate lies the Esperanza Farm, where two exceptional coffees flourish: the Mokka Incunable and the Original Heirloom. The Mokka variety, hailing from the island of Maui in Hawaii, captivates with its visibly smaller beans and heavily structured body. Meanwhile, the Original Heirloom, a natural heirloom variety, boasts an incredible profile that exemplifies the harmonious marriage of terroir and cultivation. You can find our current offerings from the Pacas Family HERE.

As we savor each sip of Pacas coffee, we're reminded of the enduring partnership forged through shared values and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The Pacas Family's legacy, rooted in tradition yet propelled by innovation, continues to inspire us on our quest for extraordinary flavors and experiences. Together, we celebrate the timeless artistry of coffee cultivation and the enduring bonds that unite us in our shared passion.

By marrying the queen of coffee varieties with innovative wine processing techniques, he has created coffees that defy convention and astonish the senses.

Natural processing, a technique cherished by the coffee world, unveils the hidden flavors within coffee beans. This method allows coffee cherries to dry intact, intensifying the fruit-forward notes characteristic of this approach.

Ripe cherries are carefully selected and laid out to dry, gradually transforming into delicate, dried husks over several weeks. During this time, the beans absorb the essence of the fruit, resulting in a coffee with vibrant flavor profiles. Once fully dried, the cherries are expertly milled to reveal the precious coffee beans within.

Natural processing has become particularly common in regions without easy access to water or where water scarcity poses challenges to traditional coffee processing methods. This necessity has led to innovation, with coffee producers worldwide embracing natural processing for its quality and flavor-enhancing benefits.

While customers are familiar with Venuste and the esteemed Tumba Washing Station, this crop of Tumba Rulindo Natural brings a new coffee to our lineup, showcasing a rich flavor profile. It boasts bright, fruit-forward notes with hints of strawberry, vanilla, and apricot. This sensory experience is a testament to the meticulous process and dedication of Venuste and the producers of the Rulindo District in Rwanda.

Despite its humble origins, natural processing has become synonymous with quality and innovation. We invite you to embark on a journey of discovery, exploring the unique characteristics that natural processing imparts to each cup with this new offering from Tumba.

Discover Tumba Rulindo Natural HERE

 

Our journey into Indonesian coffee has been extensive and multifaceted, yielding a spectrum of impressions. Early encounters with Sumatran coffees left us underwhelmed, puzzled by the prevalence of grassy and earthy notes attributed to the traditional Wet Hulling process. This method, widely adopted in Indonesia, appeared to prioritize expedience over terroir expression, steering our focus towards the accessible coffees of Latin America and Africa.

However, Indonesia's coffee scene eventually pierced through our preconceptions. In 2014, a Natural processed coffee from the Wahana estate showcased the untapped potential of Indonesia's terroir without the constraints of Wet Hulling. Our intrigue deepened at the 2018 Specialty Coffee Expo in Seattle, where the unexpected quality of Indonesian coffees at a "Best of Indonesia" auction prompted us to explore further, securing exceptional washed Javan and Balinese coffees.

A pivotal moment occurred with the hiring of an individual well-versed in Sumatran coffee culture. Through them, we connected with Voster Hutamabarat, a passionate farmer in Northern Sumatra committed to producing washed coffees. Our partnership, initiated just before the global pandemic, unearthed the richness and potential of Sumatran coffee, marked by distinctive flavors of nutmeg, ginger, and carob, devoid of the typical Sumatran nuances.

A recent expedition to Indonesia deepened our understanding. Visits to farms like Kebun Galla in Sumatra revealed Voster's innovative approach, integrating goat farming with coffee cultivation to enhance sustainability. Moreover, encounters with farmers like Aulia Kahfi highlighted a shared passion for innovative fermentation practices, shaping our perception of Indonesian coffee's potential.

In Java, our exploration led us to the Tambak Ruyung cooperative, a government-led initiative promoting sustainable livelihoods through coffee cultivation. Despite bureaucratic hurdles, the exceptional quality of their coffees underscored the value of our partnership, fueling our anticipation to share their offerings.

This journey transformed our perception of Indonesian coffee, shifting from skepticism to appreciation. It illuminated the rich diversity of Indonesian terroir and the farmers' eagerness to explore traditional and innovative fermentation practices, urging us to recognize Indonesia's emergence as a powerhouse within specialty coffee.

As a company, we take great pride in our relationship-coffee model, sourcing directly from farmers who share our commitment to quality and sustainability. This pride extends to the like-minded companies featured in our shops. One such partner is Hugo Tea, which shares our dedication to direct sourcing and ethical practices.

It brings us immense joy to showcase Hugo Tea at our cafes, where their mission and vision seamlessly align with ours. For those seeking an exceptional tea experience, we extend an invitation to explore the diverse range of seasonal loose-leaf teas available in our shops. 

"The cafe is recognized for its collaboration with Hugo Tea importers, reflecting a commitment to sustainable and ethical sourcing practices. This approach is consistent with how Corvus sources its coffee, emphasizing direct relationships with producers globally." - Joshua Perry, Chinese Tea 101

Gesha coffee's allure lies in its ancient origins and storied journey from Ethiopia to Panama, where it first gained international fame. At Corvus Coffee, we are passionate about exploring these intricate stories. Learn how the Gesha Village project in Ethiopia is reclaiming the value of this unique variety by combining traditional practices with innovative methods. This narrative reveals how a humble coffee strain transformed the industry and offers coffee enthusiasts an exquisite taste experience.