Finca Tamana

Finca Tamana is a significant coffee estate located in the mountains between El Pital and La Plata in the Huila department of Colombia. Acquired by Elias Roa in 2011, the farm spans approximately 57 hectares, making it notably larger than the average two-hectare Colombian coffee farm. The estate is situated in a region characterized by high biodiversity and a climate that supports the cultivation of high-quality specialty coffee, with the farm operating at an altitude of approximately 1,650 meters above sea level.

Elias Roa is a highly respected figure in the Colombian coffee industry, known for his leadership and commitment to quality. He serves as a founding member and former president of the Asociación Primaveral in Acevedo, an organization dedicated to improving coffee production standards. Roa’s approach to farming is a family-oriented endeavor, involving his wife, Bellanid, and their children. This collaborative effort has allowed the family to maintain a consistent focus on both agricultural excellence and the social welfare of their community, including supporting their children's education through coffee production.

What distinguishes Finca Tamana in the specialty market is its adoption of advanced processing and quality control measures. The farm is known for utilizing meticulous dry fermentation—typically lasting 14 to 16 hours—followed by multiple fresh water washes. The coffee is then dried on raised beds, a practice that ensures even moisture reduction and cleaner cup profiles. Furthermore, the farm has been noted for implementing pre-pulping sorting, a practice that was not standard in the region but has since been highlighted as an example of best-in-class production.

The farm has gained international recognition through long-term partnerships with specialty roasters, most notably Tim Wendelboe, who documented the farm's development and quality improvements in a dedicated book. These partnerships have provided a platform for Finca Tamana to showcase its output, which often features varieties such as Pink Bourbon. In the cup, these coffees are frequently characterized by bright, citrus-forward profiles, including notes of grapefruit, lemonade, and floral aromatics, balanced by a sweet, almond-like finish.

Beyond the technical aspects of production, Finca Tamana serves as a case study for the potential of specialty coffee to drive regional development. By maintaining high standards, Roa has influenced other producers in the Huila region to adopt similar practices. The farm's management philosophy balances the pursuit of the highest possible cup quality with a commitment to reducing environmental impact, ensuring that the land remains productive and healthy for future harvests.

Today, Finca Tamana stands as a benchmark for professionalized coffee farming in Colombia. Its story is one of transition from traditional farming to a highly controlled, quality-focused model that prioritizes transparency and precision. For roasters and consumers, the name Finca Tamana represents a reliable source of high-scoring Colombian coffee, reflecting the dedication of the Roa family to their craft and their ongoing contribution to the global specialty coffee landscape.