Colombia Valle Del Cauca Coffee: Origin Guide

Colombia Valle del Cauca, pronounced "vah-yeh del cow-kah," is a coffee-growing region nestled in the southwestern part of the country. This region is known for its stunning landscapes and fertile soil, with coffee plants thriving at altitudes ranging from 1,200 to 2,000 meters above sea level. An interesting fact about Valle del Cauca is that it is one of the most biodiverse regions in Colombia, providing a unique terroir for the coffee beans grown there.

History Of The Region

Coffee has been cultivated in Valle del Cauca for over a century, with the first coffee plants introduced to the region by Jesuit priests in the late 19th century. The region's unique climate and fertile volcanic soil contribute to the development of high-quality coffee beans, making Valle del Cauca one of the most important coffee-producing regions in Colombia. Today, the region is home to a growing number of smallholder coffee farmers and cooperatives who work together to enhance coffee production and improve the livelihoods of local communities.

Farming & Processing Methods

While specific farming and processing methods may vary among the different farms and cooperatives in Valle del Cauca, there are some general practices that are common throughout the region. Most coffee farmers in Valle del Cauca practice traditional, shade-grown coffee cultivation, where coffee plants are grown under the canopy of native trees. This method promotes biodiversity, reduces soil erosion, and provides natural pest control, resulting in more sustainable and environmentally friendly coffee production.

In terms of processing, the majority of coffee in Valle del Cauca is processed using the washed method, also known as the wet process. This method involves removing the outer skin and pulp of the coffee cherry, then fermenting the beans in water for a period of time to break down any remaining mucilage. The beans are then washed and dried, either in the sun or using mechanical dryers. Washed processing is known for producing clean and bright flavors in the resulting coffee, which is a characteristic often associated with Colombian coffees.

Tasting Notes

Coffees from Valle del Cauca are known for their bright acidity, medium body, and complex flavor profiles. Common tasting notes include red fruit, such as cherry and raspberry, as well as citrus, floral, and chocolate notes. The combination of the region's high altitude, volcanic soil, and diverse climate contributes to the distinctive flavors found in Valle del Cauca coffees.

Well-Known Farms and Farmers

One notable cooperative in Valle del Cauca is the Asociación de Cafeteros del Valle del Cauca (ASOCAFE), which consists of over 100 smallholder coffee farmers. ASOCAFE was founded in 2008 with the goal of improving the quality of coffee produced in the region, as well as providing support and resources for local coffee farmers. Through their collaborative efforts, ASOCAFE has succeeded in increasing the visibility of Valle del Cauca coffees and improving the livelihoods of its members.

As specialty coffee enthusiasts continue to explore the diverse flavors and profiles found in Colombian coffee, the Valle del Cauca region remains a key player in the country's coffee production. Its unique terroir and dedication to sustainable farming practices ensure that Valle del Cauca will continue to be a source of exceptional coffee for years to come.