El Ocaso, Colombia

Santiago Patiño, a third-generation coffee grower, is the owner of El Ocaso Farm, a 30-hectare property in Salento, Quindio. Acquired by his grandfather and father in 1985, the farm initially balanced cattle ranching and coffee cultivation before transitioning entirely to coffee a few years later. By 2004, their focus had narrowed to exclusively producing coffee, specializing in traditional Colombian varieties sold to local cooperatives.

 

In that same year, El Ocaso Farm embarked on experiments with natural and honey processing methods, alongside other fermentation techniques. This innovative direction proved fruitful, cementing a continued dedication to these processes. After completing his business studies, Santiago turned his attention to enhancing the coffee production process at his family's farm. By seeking advice from coffee experts and applying his own knowledge, he revamped existing fermentation protocols and developed new ones. These advancements yielded complex flavor profiles that accentuated the unique character of their coffees.

 

Furthermore, Santiago diversified the farm's cultivation by introducing a range of exotic varietals, including Gesha, Sidra, Tabi, Caturra, Papayo, SL28, and others. Among the notable varieties is Caturron, a rare mutation of Caturra, first identified in Acevedo, Huila. Coffee farmers began cultivating Caturron after recognizing its resistance to leaf rust and its high yield potential. This variety is distinguished by its exceptional cup profile, which features notes of molasses, coconut, herbal tones, cinnamon, and hints of vanilla. Caturron trees are slightly taller than Caturra trees, and their cherries mature to a dark purple. At this stage of ripeness, the mucilage possesses a distinctly sweeter and more complex taste compared to Caturra. The Caturron variety was initially pinpointed at Finca Villa Betulia, a farm owned by Luis Anibal Calderon. Recognizing its potential, producers acquired seeds and commenced experimentation with innovative processing techniques, including various fermentation methods, to enhance the variety's natural attributes and further elevate its unique qualities.

 

El Ocaso is managed using regenerative agricultural practices, incorporating organic methods. One such technique involves utilizing microorganisms to control leaf rust and borer beetles. The farm also maintains a compost area where organic waste, such as coffee husks, is collected and transformed into organic compost for application in the coffee plantations.

 

The presence of shade trees at El Ocaso cultivates a microclimate that differentiates the farm from its surroundings. This shade system enriches the soil with organic matter and shields the coffee plants from direct sunlight. The resulting cooler climate promotes slower cherry maturation, leading to a higher concentration of sugars and, ultimately, superior coffee profiles.

 

Santiago's most significant hurdles are climate change and labor availability. Shortages of labor, particularly skilled coffee pickers, present a recurring challenge due to the transient nature of this workforce. Moreover, the intense heatwaves and heavy rainfall associated with climate change have negatively impacted coffee cherry growth and overall production.

 

Despite the obstacles he and his family face, Santiago is resolute in preserving his family's coffee legacy, which serves as the primary source of income for his entire family. He is driven to continually improve his coffee practices and technology, sharing his knowledge with younger generations who will perpetuate the tradition of producing world-class coffee.

We understand that there may be times when you need to return an item to us. We have a simple and straightforward returns policy to make the process as easy as possible for you.

Incorrect or Damaged Orders

If you receive an incorrect or damaged order, please contact us within 48 hours of receiving your order. We will then arrange for the return of the goods and either replace the item or issue a full refund.

Changed Your Mind

If you have changed your mind about an item you have ordered, you can return it for a full refund within 14 days of receiving your order. Please note that the item must be returned in its original packaging and sealed.

Returning an Item

Please contact us to arrange your return.

Shipping Costs

You will be responsible for the cost of shipping the goods back to us. We recommend that you obtain proof of delivery from your shipping carrier, as we cannot be held responsible for goods lost or damaged in transit.

Refunds

Once we have received your returned item, we will process your refund within 14 working days. The refund will be issued to the original payment method used to place the order.

Please Note

• We cannot accept returns of items that have been used or opened.
• We cannot accept returns of items after 14 days of receipt.

If you have any questions about our returns policy, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Coffee is roasted to order on Monday and Thursday for dispatch on the following day with Next Day Delivery

Our standard delivery rate is £3.80. Orders over £30 will receive free delivery.