La Merced

The story

Finca La Merced was purchased in 1832 by Francisco Alburez and later passed down to his daughter, Maria Alburez de Ortega. The farm originally focused on corn and black beans before Carlos Ortega Alburez began planting the first coffee trees on the property in 1912. The farm faced significant destruction during the 1976 earthquake, which leveled the main house and community church.

Challenges

The farm experienced a major setback in 1976 when a severe earthquake caused landslides and destroyed the farm's primary infrastructure, including the main house and church.

Innovations

The farm manages its own production, processing, roasting, and export operations, and maintains a focus on hospitality through on-site coffee tours and guest accommodations.