About Costa Rica

The Central Valley of Costa Rica is a key coffee-growing region situated around the capital city of San José. It's known as one of the oldest coffee-producing regions in the country. Historically, coffee has been a vital part of the region's cultural identity, with traditions passed down through generations.

The region's altitude generally ranges from 900 to 1,200 meters, situated in the highlands surrounding the capital city of San José. The diverse terrain and volcanic soils contribute to a range of microclimates suitable for coffee growing.

Central Valley is known for their cup profiles with citrus notes, floral aromatics, sweet notes like caramel and chocolate and round bodies.

Tarrazú is a renowned coffee-growing region located in the highlands of Costa Rica. The coffee plantations here sit at altitudes ranging from approximately 1,200 to 1,900 meters (3,940 to 6,230 feet) above sea level. These high elevations, combined with unique microclimates and volcanic soils, create ideal conditions for high-quality coffee.
The area's favorable growing conditions and coffee quality attracted European and local farmers, resulting in a community deeply rooted in coffee tradition. Over time, the region became synonymous with exceptional coffee, setting benchmarks for quality that resonate globally.

Tarrazú boasts a protected Denomination of Origin (D.O.), which guarantees its geographical origin and quality. The use of the “Tarrazú” name is legally restricted to coffee cultivated and processed within specific geographic boundaries, ensuring authenticity and consistency. The D.O. certification requires producers to meet strict standards regarding variety, altitude, soil composition, and processing methods to preserve the region’s unique characteristics.

Tres Ríos, meaning "Three Rivers," is a renowned coffee-growing region located east of San José, Costa Rica. Its high-altitude farms typically range from 1,200 to 1,650 meters above sea level.
  
Coffee cultivation in Tres Ríos began in the 19th century, rapidly expanding due to its ideal climate and fertile volcanic soils. The region has a long-standing tradition of quality and is regarded as one of Costa Rica's most prestigious coffee regions, often referred to as the “Bordeaux” of Costa Rica.

The volcanic soil from Irazú volcano and altitude contribute to the coffee’s richness and complexity. Coffees from Tres Ríos typically have a balanced flavor profile, known for their bright acidity, smooth body, and distinct notes of citrus, chocolate, and subtle hints of nuts and dried fruits.

Orosi is a region in the Cartago province, situated in a valley about 40 kilometers from San José. The area's climate and volcanic soil, influenced by the Orosi River, create ideal conditions for growing coffee. The Orosi Valley is a picturesque coffee-growing region nestled in the mountains of Costa Rica, known for its steep hillsides and lush green landscapes, the coffee farms here are typically located at altitudes ranging from 1,000 to 1,700 meters above sea level.

Coffee from the Orosi Valley is recognized for its balance, cleanliness, and complexity. It enjoys international appeal and is often included in specialty blends for its versatility with smooth, mild acidity, fruity notes and chocolate notes.

Turrialba is a renowned coffee-growing region in Costa Rica, located in the province of Cartago, near the Turrialba Volcano. The region's coffee farms are situated at altitudes ranging from approximately 600 to 1,600 meters above sea level. This diverse altitude range, combined with its volcanic soils and tropical climate, creates a wide array of microclimates conducive to cultivating high-quality coffee.

Turrialba is home to the Tropical Agricultural Research and Higher Education Center (CATIE), which has significantly influenced coffee research, innovation, and sustainable practices in Costa Rica and Latin America.

The Brunca region is situated in the southern part of Costa Rica, encompassing areas within the Puntarenas province and bordering Panama. The coffee farms here range from approximately 800 to 1,800 meters above sea level. The region’s diverse altitudes, rugged terrain, and proximity to the Talamanca mountain range which includes Cerro Chirripó, Costa Rica’s highest peak create various microclimates, weather patterns, rainfall, and temperature distribution in the region that are ideal for high-quality coffee cultivation.

While some coffee cultivation may have existed earlier in the region, its significant development as a coffee-producing area is more recent. Historically, the Brunca region primarily focused on other agricultural activities, notably cattle breeding and milk production.  Increasing global demand for specialty coffee has incentivized farmers to diversify and invest in specialty coffee.