Catholic Relief Services' Borderlands project introduced us to farmers in Nariño in 2012. Before then, most producers sold their coffee for minimal premiums to one of two exporters working on behalf of two large buyers. Producers banded together in associations through the Borderlands project to sell coffee to quality-focused buyers. In doing so, they created a new business model.

In 2015, we started working with one of those newly formed associations, Agrounidos, to create Cueva de los Llanos. Every year, the association invests in resources to improve the quality of their coffee and the sustainability of their farms. The group has received several Seeds grants to build apiaries and organic fertilizer systems, strengthening their farms and economic status as a community.

This year, Agrounidos offered us a delicious, tiny lot of Pink Bourbon, which we’re thrilled to share with you in this release.

While there’s common consensus that Pink Bourbon offers a high potential for quality, there is no clear consensus on the origins of this variety. Some sources say it’s a cross between Yellow and Red Bourbon, while others point toward Ethiopian lineage. There are likely several varieties that share the phenotypic trait of producing pink ripe cherries that are called Pink Bourbon. In the coming year, we plan to send samples in for genetic testing to gain a deeper understanding of this variety. For now, we know that this variety is truly delicious, with vibrancy and juiciness complemented by delicate floral notes as the brewed coffee cools.