Harvest time!
The Beneficio La Montana Tarrazu is just a short drive from San Marcos, where the history of coffee in Tarrazu began, shortly before the end of the 19th century.
Coffee production here has undergone remarkable transformation over time. In the early days, coffee had to be transported by ox-drawn carts to San José, a journey that took several days. Back then, there was only one privately-owned beneficio (processing mill) that all farmers depended on, creating a monopoly and seriously limiting the income of the farmers. Since early days though, there has always been a tradition of small land holdings which contrasts strongly to developments in other Central American countries.
Following the global trend toward specialty coffee and direct trade relationships, many farmers now have their own mills and even roasting facilities. This shift toward vertical integration gives producers more control over quality and pricing.
Jorge and Ivannia founded Beneficio La Montana in 2009. Their farm cultivates several coffee varieties including Catuai, Caturra, Mokka and Geisha, the sensitive plant which requires much care.
During our visit, the Geisha was being harvested, and Jorge took us up to see the plantation, which sits at an elevation of 1730 meters—comparable to the renowned growing elevations of Ethiopia’s Yirgacheffe region. In spite of the altitude this year has seen rain damage.
The cherries were in excellent condition—
perfectly ripe and glowing red, indicating ideal sugar development essential for the complex flavor profile Geisha is known for.
Eddie had just filled a basket with the freshly picked fruit, each cherry carefully selected to ensure only the ripest would make it to processing. I am always impressed by the patience and work of the pickers.
We’re grateful to Jorge for spending time with us and sharing insights into his work and the current situation.
We look forward to returning in April to see the processed beans after they’ve completed fermentation and drying—critical steps that will further develop the flavor characteristics that make Tarrazu coffees so sought after in specialty markets worldwide.
This is part of our Coffee Adventure Series