Carolina Chalapud Daza and Guillermo Torres Daza

Carolina Chalapud Daza and Guillermo Torres Daza are specialized coffee producers operating in the Buesaco municipality of Nariño, Colombia. Their farm, Altos de Quitumpamba, is situated at an impressive altitude of 2,200 meters above sea level. This extreme elevation, combined with the region's characteristic volcanic soils, provides a unique microclimate that is essential for the development of the high-intensity flavor profiles for which their coffee is known.

The producers focus on the cultivation of the Pink Bourbon variety, a coffee cultivar that has gained significant attention in the specialty market for its distinct sensory characteristics. By managing their farm at such high altitudes, Chalapud Daza and Torres Daza leverage the slower maturation of the coffee cherries, which allows for a more concentrated accumulation of sugars and complex acids within the bean.

In practice, the production at Altos de Quitumpamba is defined by a rigorous commitment to post-harvest processing. The team employs a carefully controlled washed process, which includes monitored fermentation stages designed to enhance the inherent qualities of the Pink Bourbon variety. This technical approach ensures that the final cup profile maintains a high degree of clarity and balance, reflecting the specific terroir of the Nariño region.

Following the fermentation process, the coffee undergoes a slow drying phase on raised beds. This method is critical for maintaining the integrity of the bean, as it allows for uniform moisture reduction and prevents the development of off-flavors that can occur with faster, less controlled drying techniques. This attention to detail throughout the drying cycle is a hallmark of their production philosophy.

For the roaster and the consumer, the work of Carolina Chalapud Daza and Guillermo Torres Daza represents the intersection of high-altitude agriculture and precise processing. Their output is frequently sought after by specialty roasters who prioritize traceability and the distinct, high-clarity expressions of Colombian coffee. The resulting cup is often characterized by its complexity and refined acidity, which are direct outcomes of their specific farm management practices.

Their story stands as a testament to the potential of small-scale, quality-focused farming in Nariño. By focusing on specific varieties and refining their processing methods, they have successfully positioned their farm as a source of premium specialty coffee. Their contributions highlight the importance of producer-level expertise in the global specialty coffee supply chain, where the decisions made at the farm level directly dictate the quality and value of the final product.