La Lomita
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La Lomita is a name shared by multiple distinct agricultural entities, most notably a coffee farm in Buesaco, Colombia, owned by Hermel Lasso, and another in the Valle del Cauca region. These farms are recognized in the specialty coffee industry for their high-altitude production, meticulous processing methods, and commitment to sustainable, direct-trade relationships that prioritize quality over commodity-market pricing.
The name 'La Lomita' appears in the specialty coffee industry as a designation for specific, high-quality estates, most notably in Colombia. One prominent example is the farm located in Buesaco, Nariño, owned by producer Hermel Lasso. Situated at high elevations in the Andes, this farm is celebrated for producing single-origin lots that exhibit distinct flavor profiles, often characterized by notes of ripe stone fruit and soft citrus. These characteristics are a direct result of the high-altitude climate, which slows the maturation of the coffee cherry, allowing for greater sugar development and cup clarity.
Another notable 'La Lomita' is located in the Valle del Cauca region. This smaller estate, spanning approximately 11 hectares, has gained recognition for its focus on environmental stewardship, with 40% of its land dedicated to a forest reserve for over five decades. This farm transitioned toward specialty production during the 2012-2013 coffee price crisis, a period when global commodity prices fell below the cost of production. By shifting focus to specialty-grade coffee, the farm sought a more sustainable economic model that allowed for continued operation despite market volatility.
In terms of agricultural practices, these farms often utilize varieties such as Castillo, which was developed by the Colombian research center for coffee (Cenicafé) for its resistance to leaf rust. The processing at these estates is marked by rigorous control over the 'beneficio' or milling process. By meticulously managing fermentation and drying, producers ensure consistency in the final cup, which is a hallmark of their artisan approach to coffee cultivation.
For the roaster and the consumer, the 'La Lomita' tag represents a commitment to traceability and direct relationships. Many roasters maintain long-term partnerships with these farms, sometimes involving on-site collaboration where roasters participate in harvest and experimental processing. This level of engagement ensures that the coffee is handled with care from the tree to the final roast, providing a transparent alternative to commodity-grade coffee.
It is important for researchers and consumers to distinguish between these coffee-producing entities and other businesses sharing the name. 'La Lomita' is a common geographical term in Spanish-speaking countries, and the name is also used by unrelated wineries in Baja California, Mexico, and various produce markets in the United States. Within the context of a coffee publication, the tag specifically refers to the high-quality, specialty-focused farms in Colombia.
Ultimately, the story of La Lomita is one of resilience and quality. Whether through the high-altitude precision of the Nariño farm or the conservation-focused efforts in Valle del Cauca, these producers exemplify the shift toward specialty coffee as a viable, high-value livelihood. Their work demonstrates how technical expertise, combined with a dedication to sustainable land management, can produce exceptional coffee that resonates with the modern specialty market.