How Costa Rica Became an Ecological Coffee Leader: Beneficio Las Lajas and Sustainable Innovation
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Costa Rica has evolved into an ecological coffee powerhouse, thanks to its strict environmental laws and innovative coffee processing techniques. Known for its stunning biodiversity, Costa Rica has made sustainability a cornerstone of its coffee industry. Producers like Beneficio Las Lajas, located near the Poás Volcano in Sabanilla de Alajuela, exemplify this eco-friendly approach. Las Lajas, a certified organic farm, is renowned for its high-quality coffee and groundbreaking methods that minimize water usage. Learn more about their unique practices here.
Las Lajas has redefined coffee processing in Costa Rica by focusing on honey and natural processes, which use significantly less water compared to traditional washed methods. Owners Francisca Cubillo and Oscar Chacón, third-generation coffee farmers, took the bold step of processing their own coffee, breaking away from the norm. These methods, including their now-famous Perla Negra process, not only reduce water consumption but also produce exceptional flavor profiles. You can taste the fruits of their labor with the exquisite Perla Negra coffee
The farm’s history is as rich as its coffee. When Oscar inherited five hectares of land at 18 after his father's passing, he and his mother worked tirelessly to keep the legacy alive. In 1997, Oscar married Francisca, who brought her expertise in agricultural studies to further elevate their craft. By the 2000s, they began experimenting with innovative processing techniques, driven by both necessity and creativity.
A defining moment came in 2009, during a devastating earthquake that caused power outages during the coffee harvest. Francisca and Oscar improvised by drying their coffee cherries intact, mimicking techniques from Africa. The result was **Perla Negra**, a sun-dried coffee with vibrant flavors that revolutionized Costa Rica’s coffee industry. This bold experiment not only demonstrated resilience but also set a new standard for sustainable coffee processing.
Costa Rica’s success as an ecological coffee leader stems from producers like Las Lajas, who embrace sustainability without compromising quality. Their commitment to organic farming, innovative processes, and environmental stewardship ensures that Costa Rican coffee continues to be celebrated worldwide. Whether you’re savoring a cup of Perla Negra or exploring the farm’s legacy, Costa Rica's coffee story is one of ingenuity and respect for the planet.
Las Lajas has redefined coffee processing in Costa Rica by focusing on honey and natural processes, which use significantly less water compared to traditional washed methods. Owners Francisca Cubillo and Oscar Chacón, third-generation coffee farmers, took the bold step of processing their own coffee, breaking away from the norm. These methods, including their now-famous Perla Negra process, not only reduce water consumption but also produce exceptional flavor profiles. You can taste the fruits of their labor with the exquisite Perla Negra coffee
The farm’s history is as rich as its coffee. When Oscar inherited five hectares of land at 18 after his father's passing, he and his mother worked tirelessly to keep the legacy alive. In 1997, Oscar married Francisca, who brought her expertise in agricultural studies to further elevate their craft. By the 2000s, they began experimenting with innovative processing techniques, driven by both necessity and creativity.
A defining moment came in 2009, during a devastating earthquake that caused power outages during the coffee harvest. Francisca and Oscar improvised by drying their coffee cherries intact, mimicking techniques from Africa. The result was **Perla Negra**, a sun-dried coffee with vibrant flavors that revolutionized Costa Rica’s coffee industry. This bold experiment not only demonstrated resilience but also set a new standard for sustainable coffee processing.
Costa Rica’s success as an ecological coffee leader stems from producers like Las Lajas, who embrace sustainability without compromising quality. Their commitment to organic farming, innovative processes, and environmental stewardship ensures that Costa Rican coffee continues to be celebrated worldwide. Whether you’re savoring a cup of Perla Negra or exploring the farm’s legacy, Costa Rica's coffee story is one of ingenuity and respect for the planet.
