Origin Story
This exceptional Chiroso varietal comes from the renowned coffee-growing region of Huila, Colombia, cultivated by members of the Asociación de Caficultores de Huila at elevations between 1,650-1,800 meters above sea level. The Chiroso varietal is a rare and prized mutation of Caturra, known for its exceptional cup quality and delicate floral characteristics. Grown by third and fourth-generation coffee farming families on small plots averaging 2-3 hectares, these beans are meticulously hand-picked at peak ripeness and processed using the honey method—where the coffee cherry's mucilage is left on the bean during drying, creating enhanced sweetness and body. The beans are dried on raised African beds for 18-22 days, carefully turned by hand to ensure even fermentation. This labor-intensive process, combined with Huila's ideal microclimate of cool nights and warm days, produces a coffee of extraordinary complexity and elegance that showcases the pinnacle of Colombian specialty coffee.
Producer Details
Cooperative: Asociación de Caficultores de Huila
Region: Huila, Colombia
Altitude: 1,650-1,800 MASL
Process: Honey (mucilage retained during drying)
Varietal: Chiroso (rare Caturra mutation)
Farmers: 150+ smallholder families, average farm size 2-3 hectares
Drying Method: Raised African beds, 18-22 days
Harvest Season: April - June (main harvest)
Sustainability & Certifications
✓ Direct Trade Partnership: Long-term relationship with cooperative, prices 30% above commodity market
✓ Shade-Grown: Cultivated under native shade trees including plantain and guamo
✓ Organic Practices: Natural composting, no synthetic pesticides or fertilizers
✓ Water Conservation: Honey processing uses 80% less water than traditional washed methods
✓ Regenerative Agriculture: Farmers practice soil conservation and biodiversity protection
✓ Fair Wages: Premium pricing ensures living wages for all farm workers
✓ Community Investment: Cooperative funds support education, healthcare, and coffee quality labs
✓ Women in Coffee: 35% of cooperative members are women farmers with equal decision-making rights
Tasting Profile
Aroma: Citrus blossom, red berries, light floral notes with hints of jasmine
Flavor Notes: Cherry, red apple, bakery chocolate, honey sweetness, citrus zest
Acidity: Medium, bright and elegant like pink grapefruit
Body: Balanced and silky with creamy mouthfeel
Finish: Sweet and lingering with floral undertones
Brewing Recommendations: Exceptional as pour-over (V60, Chemex) or espresso
Why Chiroso is Special
Chiroso is one of Colombia's most sought-after varietals, a natural mutation of Caturra discovered in the 1980s. It's notoriously difficult to cultivate—producing lower yields and requiring meticulous care—but rewards farmers and coffee lovers with unparalleled cup quality. The honey processing method further enhances its natural sweetness and complexity, creating a coffee that's both vibrant and elegant.
Traceability
This coffee is fully traceable to the Asociación de Caficultores de Huila cooperative and the specific farms in the Huila region. We maintain detailed records including lot numbers, harvest dates, and processing notes. Each lot is cupped and scored at our Dubai facility by founder Mohamed Hamdou, and this exceptional coffee is featured in our advanced barista training programs to demonstrate the impact of processing methods on flavor development.
At 1718 Coffee, we're committed to knowing the people behind every bean we source. Questions about this rare Chiroso's journey from the mountains of Huila to your cup? We're here to share the story.
