Pink Bourbon - Finca La Pradera

Finca La Pradera in Santa Maria, Huila, Colombia

Pink Bourbon

Fun fact: Pink Bourbon got its name from the unique color of the coffee cherries which are pinkish-red. Originally thought to be of the bourbon variety, recent genetic testing showed that it's an "Ethiopian Landrace" variety. Otherwise known as an "heirloom" varietal.

More About the Farm & Farmers Growing Your Good Medicine

Finca La Pradera in Santa Maria, Huila, Colombia, is renowned for its Pink Bourbon coffee.

Managed by Luis Enrique Cuellar and his brother Robinson, the farm spans 6 hectares, with 3.5 hectares dedicated to coffee cultivation. The farm sits at an elevation of 2,050 meters above sea level and has around 13,000 coffee trees in production.

The Pink Bourbon variety is known for its unique flavor profile, which includes notes of grapefruit, pink lemonade, pink starburst, guava, watermelon, and pomegranate.

Processing

The coffee cherries undergo a meticulous process: they are fermented for 24 hours, floated to remove under/over-ripes, de-pulped, and then left to ferment and dry for another 48-52 hours. After washing, the coffee is dried in a traditional greenhouse for 18-25 days, depending on the weather.

Luis Enrique, an agronomist, oversees the plots and commercialization, while Robinson manages the processing and drying. Their complementary skills ensure high-quality coffee production.

Sustainability Practices

Although the farm lacks environmental certifications, Enrique practices several sustainable methods:

  • Implementing a shade-tree system across the farm, uncommon in Colombia
  • Reducing the carbon footprint by using nitrogen-free products like fertilizers
  • Utilizing an eco-washer to minimize water usage and prevent contamination of clean water streams
  • Controlling weeds with a weed whacker instead of harmful chemicals, leaving the cuttings on the soil to protect it from high temperatures
  • Planning to introduce an organic process using chicken manure and organic fertilizer produced on the farm

This coffee was imported by Coffee Quest.

Photo credit: Coffee Quest