ASOPEP
A naturally processed Colombian coffee, like El Indio, truly represents a rarity in the renowned Tolima region, known for its production of washed coffee. However, this exception demonstrates how innovation and experimentation can lead to excellent results.
The Tolima region is renowned for its large quantity of cultivated coffee, accounting for 12% of Colombia's annual production. Moreover, Tolima Coffee is well-known for its consistently high quality, which is why it often takes centre stage in events like the Cup of Excellence and all competitions organised by the Colombian Coffee Federation.
The production of this coffee is entrusted to members of the ASOPEP association (Association of Ecological Producers of Planadas), a community of 175 coffee farmers' families. With great care and attention, the farmers manually select only mature cherries, which are then dried on raised beds until they reach 11% moisture content. This lengthy process requires precision and dedication, but the results are extraordinary, as evidenced by the uniqueness of this coffee, which stands out for its freshness and irresistible pleasantness.
Naturally processed coffee like El Indio represents rarity in the Tolima region, known for its production for washed coffee.
Tolima
Tolima is the third-largest coffee-producing region in Colombia, responsible for 12 per cent of the country's annual production. This rural area is located in the Andean mountains and the Magdalena River basin. Its high elevation and sheltered valley climate produce stunning specialty coffee. Tolima is particularly known for its production of washed coffee. Situated in the heart of Colombia, the region boasts diverse landscapes with altitudes ranging between 1,200 and 2,000 meters above sea level. Notably, the snow-capped volcano "Nevado del Tolima" adds to the region's beauty and fertile soil.
The history of coffee cultivation in Tolima dates back to the early 19th century when Jesuit priests introduced the crop to the region. The combination of fertile soil, high altitude, and favourable climate conditions has allowed coffee production to thrive. Today, Tolima is one of Colombia's key coffee-growing regions, known for producing high-quality specialty coffees enjoyed worldwide.
Most coffee farms in the region are small, family-owned operations that grow Arabica coffee plants, which thrive in the high altitude and mild climate. In terms of processing, the traditional wet process is commonly used in Colombia, involving the removal of the coffee cherry's pulp and skin, followed by fermentation to remove the remaining mucilage. The beans are then washed and sun-dried. This meticulous processing helps preserve the distinct flavours and characteristics unique to the Tolima region.