Costa Rica: Granitos - Ortiz 1800

Tasting notes

In the roaster’s words

Costa Rica: Granitos - Ortiz 1800, Catuai, Yellow Honey A gentle peach sweetness on the first sip slips seamlessly into marzipan . Sultanas and a dash of cream on the aftertaste round it out, but it's that sweet marzipan you'll keep coming back for. The Tarrazú region sits halfway down Costa Rica, towards the western coast. The region is made up of the Dota, San Marcos (Tarrazú) and Leon Cortes Cantons, thread through by beautiful mountains that are part of the Talamanca Sierra. The mountain landscape provides perfect conditions for the production of high-quality specialty coffee beans. The plants thrive in fertile volcanic soils at an ideal average temperature of just under 20°C and the steep slopes providing the right balance of high altitudes for slow cherry maturation and shelter for the delicate Arabica trees. This Yellow Honey Catuai from Granitos de Altura del Ortiz is a fine example of the region’s coffees. A Family-Run Micromill in the Mountains of Tarrazú Sitting at 1,800 metres above sea level in Tarrazú you’ll find Granitos de Altura del Ortiz. The family-run micromill is managed by sisters Johana and Joyce Calderón, known for producing elegant, expressive coffees that reflect both the meticulous care that goes into growing and processing them and the exceptional terroir. The farm is a fine example of the characteristic cup profile gleaned from the cool mountain air and rich volcanic soils - ideal conditions for slow cherry maturation and more complex cup profiles. The name “Granitos de Altura” translates to “High Altitude Little Beans” - a nod to both the terrain and the fastidious care that defines their approach. This small but mighty operation is a shining example of Costa Rica’s micromill revolution. Women in Coffee: Johana & Joyce Calderón The mill was originally run by Joyce and Johana’s father, Omar Calderón, until they asked if they could take the reins. Since he said yes (of course!) just over a decade ago, the sisters have run the business with a deep commitment to quality over quantity. Omar still plays a vital role, managing the farms where the coffee is grown. Rather than expanding production, Joyce focuses on refining every step of the process - from cherry selection to drying - to ensure each lot meets their exacting standards. The family’s philosophy is rooted in connection: with the land, with the coffee, and with the people who come to visit and share in the experience. “When the harvest is in full swing, the days are long an

Notes

Family-run micromill in Tarrazú managed by sisters Johana and Joyce Calderón, with Omar Calderón managing the farms.