The Story Behind Every Sip: From Santa María Huila to you

At the heart of Colombia’s coffee legacy lies the municipality of Santa María, Huila, where Joan Smith Becerra and his family cultivate some of the region’s most exquisite beans. Nestled at 1,750 meters above sea level, Joan’s farm is a testament to dedication, tradition, and a passion for quality. 

Joan, part of a new generation of producers, has taken the helm of his family’s farm with a commitment to preserving its heritage while ensuring sustainable practices. The farm’s coffee plants are under the natural shade of citrus, avocado, orange, and banana trees, surrounded by pristine natural water sources. With nearly 100% of the land dedicated to coffee cultivation, the main varieties grown include Caturra and Castillo.

What sets this coffee apart is the meticulous attention to detail. Every bean is handpicked at its ripest and subjected to a pre-selection process in water to ensure only the best cherries are used. After this, the cherries undergo a natural fermentation and washing process before being dried in marquesinas and patios—methods that protect the beans and bring out their rich flavors.

This dedication to quality wouldn’t reach your cup without the curation expertise of Varietale, a Bogotá-based coffee company known for its exceptional standards. Varietale’s CEO, Abel, has built a reputation for sourcing and sharing Colombia’s finest coffees, and Joan’s work perfectly aligns with their mission. Together, they’re creating a direct link between producer and consumer, ensuring transparency and traceability at every step.

Joan’s story is one of perseverance and innovation, representing a shift in Colombia’s coffee industry. Younger producers like him are returning to their roots,  It’s not just about farming—it’s about sharing a piece of Colombia’s soul with every cup.

So, the next time you sip on a coffee curated by Varietale and grown by Joan, know that you’re tasting more than just coffee. You’re experiencing the dedication of a family, the richness of Santa María’s soil, and the passion of a new generation carrying Colombia’s coffee tradition forward.

You can get the Cascajal Coffee here.