Aquiares

"Aquiares" translates to “land between rivers” in the Huetar language. This estate, also known as “Aquiares Coffee and Community,” is Costa Rica's largest farm, housing 1,800 residents. Established in 1890, its transformation began a century later under Alfonso Robelo. Fleeing Nicaragua's political turmoil, Alfonso settled in Costa Rica, founding the Aquiares community amidst Turrialba volcano's lush landscapes.

Alfonso revolutionized worker-landowner dynamics at Aquiares, addressing its economic challenges. Recognizing the insecurity among 200 employees without home ownership, he turned the farm into a community where workers bought homes, making Aquiares a paragon of sustainable agriculture.

Today, Alfonso’s son, Diego, pioneers specialty coffee approaches in Central America, making Aquiares an industry leader. The farm emphasizes carbon neutrality, aligning with International Panel on Climate Change standards, and fostering environmental research. Aquiares stands as an epitome of innovation and sustainability in the coffee sector.

The Centroamericano H1 hybrid, created from Sarchimor T-5296 and Rume Sudan, is a high-yield, rust-resistant variety with a nuanced flavor profile, thriving in Turrialba’s climate. Specifically chosen for Anaerobic Natural processing due to its mucilage content, cherries undergo fermentation in sealed tanks, then sun-dried, reflecting Aquiares' commitment to quality.