Editorial illustrationLa Laja
This is a research profile, not an independently conducted farm visit. Producer and coffee relationships are shown only when the records agree. Check the research sources below for supporting evidence.
The story
James Fernández was raised among coffee trees, learning the trade from his parents and grandparents. Although he briefly explored other agricultural opportunities, his connection to coffee eventually drew him back to the industry. He now manages La Laja, where he focuses on high-quality production.
Challenges
The farm must navigate the inherent difficulties of cultivating sensitive, high-value coffee varieties that require precise management to maintain quality and yield.
Innovations
James Fernández has focused on expanding into rare and highly regarded coffee varieties. He was an early adopter of the Geisha variety in Colombia, establishing high-purity plantings after recognizing its distinct sensory profile.
Published coffees linked to this farm
For blends, a farm may be named for one documented component without growing the entire coffee. These catalog relationships do not independently verify every lot, harvest or producer. See individual coffee profiles for traceability evidence.
Editorial illustrationResearch sources & verification
These source links were recorded for this farm profile. They document its research trail; a linked source is not, by itself, confirmation of every farm, producer, coffee lot or photo identity.
Research last reviewed: 2026-10-06
