Gildardo & Yolanda Lopez

Gildardo and Yolanda Lopez operate their coffee farm, El Calamar, located in El Carmen, Paicol, within the Huila department of Colombia. Situated at an impressive altitude of 2,000 meters above sea level near the border with Cauca, the farm benefits from the unique microclimates of the Andean mountains. The family-run operation includes the couple and their four children, who work together to maintain the high standards that have made their coffee a sought-after commodity among specialty roasters.

The couple is particularly celebrated for their cultivation of the Pink Bourbon variety. This specific cultivar, known for its complex sensory profile, requires careful management to reach its full potential. The Lopez family’s commitment to quality is evident in their rigorous processing methods, which typically involve hand-picking cherries at peak ripeness followed by a flotation process to remove defects. The coffee undergoes a 30-hour fermentation period, followed by de-pulping and a secondary 48-hour dry fermentation in parchment before being washed and dried on raised beds for 20 to 25 days.

Their dedication to precision has earned them significant recognition in the Colombian coffee sector. Gildardo Lopez’s lots are known to perform exceptionally well in regional competitions, including a notable first-place finish in the Central Region of the Copa de Oro. These accolades serve as a testament to the family's ability to consistently produce high-scoring, complex coffees that feature distinct notes of dark honey, strawberry, lime zest, blackberry, and nectarine.

For the specialty coffee industry, the work of the Lopez family represents the intersection of traditional farming and modern quality-focused processing. By focusing on high-altitude cultivation and meticulous post-harvest techniques, they have successfully elevated their farm's output to a level that commands attention in the global market. Their partnership with roasters who prioritize transparency and quality ensures that the value added by their labor is recognized and rewarded.

The story of Gildardo and Yolanda Lopez is emblematic of the shift toward high-quality, traceable micro-lots in Colombia. As producers, they have moved beyond the volatility of commodity coffee markets by focusing on the unique sensory qualities of their specific terroir and varietal. This approach not only secures a better position for their family but also provides roasters and consumers with a transparent, high-quality product that reflects the specific conditions of the Huila region.

Today, the Lopez family continues to refine their craft, with their harvests being eagerly anticipated by roasters each season. Their ongoing success in regional competitions and their ability to maintain consistent quality across different harvest cycles solidify their reputation as leaders in the specialty coffee community. Their work remains a primary example of how small-scale, family-led estates can achieve global recognition through a steadfast commitment to agricultural excellence.