Armando Hurtado

Armando Hurtado is a prominent young producer whose work at his farm, Los Pinos, has gained significant attention within the specialty coffee industry. Located in the Pacaypata region of Cusco, Peru, the farm is situated at a high altitude of 2,100 meters above sea level. The farm is noted for its unique microclimate, characterized by a waterfall that runs through the property, fostering a high degree of biodiversity and a distinct terroir that contributes to the quality of the coffee produced there.

The primary variety cultivated at Los Pinos is SL9, an Ethiopian legacy variety that has become a hallmark of Hurtado’s production. Locally referred to as 'Inca Gesha,' this variety is grown throughout the Inkawasi valley and southern Peru. While its full genetic lineage remains a subject of ongoing study, the variety is highly regarded by roasters and consumers for its sparkling acidity, floral aromatics, and complex fruit-forward cup profiles, often exhibiting notes of jasmine, star fruit, and acai berry.

Hurtado’s approach to coffee production emphasizes traditional organic growing practices, prioritizing harmony with the natural environment. This commitment to sustainable land management is reflected in the farm's lush, biodiverse surroundings. By working in alignment with the natural ecosystem of the Cusco region, Hurtado has established a reputation for producing high-quality lots that showcase the potential of Peruvian specialty coffee.

Processing at Los Pinos is handled with meticulous attention to detail. The coffee cherries are hand-picked at the peak of ripeness and subjected to a flotation process to remove defects. Following de-pulping, the coffee undergoes a 32-hour dry fermentation process before being dried on raised beds. This rigorous post-harvest protocol is designed to preserve the inherent complexity of the SL9 variety and ensure consistency in the final cup.

In recent years, Hurtado’s coffee has been featured by specialty roasters who highlight his work as a testament to the evolving quality of Peruvian coffee. His partnership with international roasters has provided a platform for his coffee to reach a global audience, with many noting that his lots have been instrumental in demonstrating the potential of the Cusco region. The consistent quality of his harvests has solidified his standing as a producer to watch in the specialty sector.

For the drinker, Hurtado’s coffee represents the intersection of unique regional terroir and careful, traditional processing. The 'Inca Gesha' profile offers a distinct experience that bridges the gap between classic high-altitude Peruvian coffee and the highly sought-after characteristics of Ethiopian heirloom varieties. As the specialty market continues to value traceability and producer-focused narratives, Hurtado’s work at Los Pinos serves as a clear example of how individual farmers are elevating the standards of their origin.