Colombia Altura by Small Producers
Tastes: Raw sugar, almond, clean
Varieties: Mixed
Region: Buesaco, Nariño
Process: Washed
Altitude: 1700-2100 m
Importer: Apex Coffee Imports
Altura means “altitude,” and here it refers to a collective of coffees cultivated on farms nestled along the dramatic slopes of the Andes. The Galeras Volcano, with its centuries of eruptions, has enriched the surrounding soil with mineral-rich ash, granting fertility and vigor that have sustained smallholder families for generations.
This lot originates from the Buesaco region of Nariño, close to the Ecuadorian border. Coffee thrives here at some of Colombia’s loftiest elevations, reaching up to 2,100 meters above sea level. Buesaco has built a strong reputation for excellence, with many of its lots placing in Colombia’s Cup of Excellence competitions. The producer group behind this coffee unites 420 smallholders from towns such as Juanambú, Buesaco Centro, Santa María, and El Naranjal. Among them, 52 have been selected for the Café Con Altura program, receiving additional support in infrastructure and training to help them craft exceptional coffees.
Most farmers use a traditional washed method, with fermentation lasting 12–16 hours, followed by drying on rooftops or raised African beds for 8–14 days depending on weather. Land ownership remains communal, though each farmer manages and markets their own plots. Extended sun-drying, sometimes exceeding two weeks, often brings subtle, fruit-like flavors into the final cup.