Colombia - Sol Naciente El Chorro - Washed

GrainPro 70kg packaging

🏞️ Region and Terroir

El Chorro – Sol Naciente farm is located in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta region, one of Colombia's most unique growing areas. This mountain range in the north of the country is considered the highest coastal mountain range in the world and creates extraordinary conditions for growing specialty Arabica.

Coffee here grows at altitudes of approximately 1,400–1,700 meters above sea level, where the warm Caribbean climate alternates with cool mountain air. Thanks to the proximity of the ocean and humid winds, a stable microclimate with regular fogs and abundant rainfall is created. These conditions allow for slower ripening of coffee cherries, which leads to higher bean density and more pronounced flavor complexity.

The soils in the Sierra Nevada region are rich in organic matter and minerals, formed from a combination of sedimentary and volcanic rocks. Together with the natural shading provided by tropical vegetation, they create an ideal environment for sustainable production of quality coffee.

The farm is surrounded by pristine forest and the biodiversity of tropical plants. Tall trees provide shade, protecting the coffee plants from direct sun, helping to maintain soil moisture, and supporting a stable ecosystem. The terroir of Sierra Nevada is known for a clean and balanced cup with subtle acidity, sweetness, and an elegant aroma.

👨🌾 Farmers and Their Story

Sol Naciente Organic coffee is produced under the Grupo Sierra program, coordinated by the Inconexus SAS organization. The program brings together 21 coffee producers from the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta region and the department of Cesar.

Many of these farmers are victims of the armed conflict in Colombia. In the past, they were forced to abandon their lands, which were later returned to them through a state land restitution program. After years of uncertainty, they thus gained the opportunity to farm their land again and resume traditional agriculture.

With the support of the Inconexus organization, farmers have united to jointly produce high-quality coffee, strengthen their market position, and improve the living conditions of their families. In addition to coffee, they also grow other crops such as avocados, beans, and bananas, which complement their agricultural production.

The Sol Naciente program places great emphasis on farmer education, natural resource protection, and technical support in coffee cultivation. The project also includes training focused on the production and use of organic fertilizers, which farmers can prepare directly on the farm from available materials. This approach helps reduce production costs while promoting sustainable land management.

Program members are certified Organic and Fair Trade producers and have long supported sustainable coffee cultivation. On their farms, they implement modern agricultural practices aimed at protecting biodiversity, preserving natural ecosystems, and reducing the use of agrochemicals. These practices have a positive impact not only on soil and water resources but also on local fauna, flora, and the health of workers and end consumers.

Through access to the international specialty coffee market, farmers want to introduce the world to the unique flavor profile of their region. Every cup of this coffee is thus the result of their persistent work, cooperation, and efforts for a better future for local communities. ☕

⚙️ Processing and Key Processes

This lot was processed using the washed method, which is traditional in Colombia and allows the natural character of the variety and terroir to shine.

The process begins with selective hand-picking, where farmers select only fully ripe cherries. This ensures consistent quality and sweetness in the resulting cup.

After harvesting, the cherries are pulped and then fermented in water tanks for approximately 12–24 hours to break down the remaining mucilage. Fermentation is carefully controlled according to temperature and humidity.

After fermentation, the coffee is thoroughly washed with clean water, removing any remaining mucilage. It is then dried on African beds or concrete patios, where it is regularly turned to ensure even drying.

This processing method creates a clean, bright, and balanced cup that highlights the natural sweetness of the coffee and its delicate fruity acidity. Washed coffees from the Sierra Nevada region are prized for their elegance, flavor clarity, and pleasant harmony between sweetness and freshness.

Flavor profile: Chocolate, caramel, stone fruit sweetness, light florality

Country of origin: Colombia

Region: Sierra Nevada/El Chorro

Producer: ORG Sol Naciente

Altitude: 1400-1750 m.a.s.l.

Variety: Colombia, Castillo, Caturra

Processing: Washed

Cupping Score: 84

Crop: 2025