A leader in the micro-mill revolution, Costa Rica has transformed its production structure over the past decade, shifting from co-ops and larger private mills to smallholder-owned micro-mills. This vertical integration has enabled small producers to add value through improved quality and individualization while reaching new markets. Their successes inspire us and are a testament to these producers. This season, we are proud to have selected a fresh-crop microlot from La Fila that speaks to this tradition.

Eight years ago, Joiner Alvarado and his family began farming vegetables on a small plot of land to gain agricultural experience. Their land is located near one of the highest points in Costa Rica, and many believed this region was too cold to produce coffee. Despite this, Joiner and his brothers began planting coffee plants and, with a lot of effort over many years, produced high-quality coffee. Joiner eventually took over the farm completely and swapped out all their vegetable growing plots for coffee. He has since built a micro mill to help produce and process specialty coffee. Joiner, alongside his wife and four daughters, continues to improve each year, planting new varieties and experimenting with processing techniques. 

This year, we are featuring two lots from Joiner's farms: a washed and a honey-processed. This is the washed lot with velvety notes of blackberry, vanilla, and white wine. Get dialed in by starting with a 1:16.5 brew ratio, filtered water at 204-206℉, a medium grind, and a 3-3.5-minute brew cycle.