Hacienda Sonora – Costa Rica

In the lush hills of Central Valley, Costa Rica sits Hacienda Sonora, a farm that more resembles a forest than it does a coffee farm. Its position at the foot of the Poas Volcano gives them the opportunity to produce spectacular coffees from the rich volcanic soil. Diego Guardia manages the 100 hectares of farm which is made up of 50 hectares of shaded coffee, 35 hectares of wild forest, and 10 hectares of sugarcane. The farm’s goals have always been to produce the highest quality micro-lot varieties, maintain harmony with nature, and have a positive impact on the environment. As such, the farm uses 100% renewable energy supplied by a turbine placed in a natural stream on the farm.

In order to conserve water, Hacienda Sonora only produces honey and natural processed coffee. These processes save a lot of water compared to the commonly used washed process, but they require a lot more work in the form of constant and meticulous monitoring to ensure the coffee dries correctly. Although, when done correctly, such as this lot of SL28, the results are incredible.

Hacienda Sonora prides itself on supporting and empowering their employees as they believe employees form the foundation for a quality farm. This includes providing housing for their employees’ families, along with covering some amenities, and in-turn the employees provide their energy, mutual respect, and local-insight. Happy farmers make for great coffee!

Part of what makes this specific lot so exciting is the variety SL28. In the 1930’s the Kenyan government was searching for coffee varieties that would be able to provide high quality results while being resistant to plant disease and leaf-rust. Scott Labs, the SL in SL28, selected this as one of the winners and the coffee soon became one of the most widely grown in all of Kenya with incredible results. Fast-forward to the 21st century and farmers in South America have begun planting this variety on their farms with similarly delicious effects.