Producer Raul Rodriguez is known by many as “the son of Don Ermenegildo Rodriguez.” Don Ermenegildo was one of the biggest coffee innovators of his time and helped introduce the world to exotic varietals such as Yellow Bourbon, Typica, and Caturra. While Raul carries on his father’s farm, his name, and his love for innovation, there is much more to to be said about the unique producer Raul is becoming. His new farm, Santa Lucia Reserve, is certified organic. Here he employs around 75 pickers during coffee harvest season along with the 15 permanent workers that live on the farm with their families. As a socially conscious coffee producer, Raul pays his workers the highest salaries in the region and he even donated part of his profits from all of his direct sales last year to help rebuild the local school. Santa Lucia, perfectly planted in Montaña de La Choca atop a national mountain reserve, is surrounded by a cloud forest full of exotic wildlife. The well-defined seasons in this region contribute to the high quality of specialty coffees. The rainy season results in beautiful cherries, and the clear, dry season allows the producers to sun-dry their coffee once it is washed. The high altitude, richness of the clay, soil, and warmth of the sun ensure that the integrity and quality of the beans are preserved from beginning to end. We were first introduced to Santa Lucia and Raul through Nelson Amador, founder of De La Finca Coffee Importers. Raul is Nelson’s grandfather, and his experience with the farm and the quality of coffee made the decision to work together an easy one. We’re proud to offer such an exceptional direct trade coffee, and think you’ll enjoy this coffee in all brew methods, especially drip and espresso.