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Is direct trade a myth?
Connecting Costa Rican Producers with German Roasters – Project Conclusions English Version The Vision When I began this project, my goal was simple: to create direct connections between coffee producers in Costa Rica and coffee roasters in Germany. I believed that both sides would benefit – producers would receive better recognition and potentially better prices…
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A short history of Tarrazu
Check the main menu – Tarrazu, a success story – for a brief history of coffee growing in Tarrazu. An inspiring story emphasizing both the role of individuals and of cooperatives
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La Montana Tarrazu
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,…
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A Second Visit to La Casona
Once again, I was impressed by the friendliness and openness I often experience in Costa Rica. My conversation with Jorge offered a revealing glimpse into the challenges facing local coffee producers this season. While every season brings difficulties, this year’s changing conditions have been particularly challenging. Climate Challenges and Their Impact The heavy rains have…
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Adventures at Sol Naciente
A Visit in the Rain My February visit to Sol Naciente will likely remain memorable not just for the insights gained, but for an adventure that perfectly illustrates the spirit of Costa Rica’s coffee community. While discussing the farm’s operations with Jimmy Bonilla Martinez, the skies opened up. The rain transformed the already steep approach…
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The Price of Coffee
Market Challenges and Better Solutions Recently, the price for green coffee beans on the international market climbed dramatically to $4.5 per pound. While this surge has since settled to under $4 per pound, it raises important questions about market reactions to reduced coffee availability. This significant price increase deserves scrutiny, particularly because the financial gains…
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Beneficio Los Cuarteles
A visit to Mario Aruba at Beneficio Los Cuarteles,Leon Cortez, Tarrazu, Costa Rica On a mid-February morning, we visited Beneficio Los Cuarteles where we met Mario Araya and his son David. The timing gave us a clear view of how this year’s unusual weather has impacted their harvest operations. The Farm Located in Leon Cortez,…