Marta and Jose Florez

Marta and Jose Florez are coffee producers based in the high-altitude region of Urrao, Antioquia, Colombia. The couple, who grew up in the Colombian countryside, purchased their farm, El Silencio, nearly 24 years ago. Their transition into specialty coffee production was driven by a shared commitment to farming as a way of life, with Marta—who gained foundational experience growing coffee in Betania—leading the strategic focus on high-quality output. Today, Marta oversees the critical stages of harvest, processing, and drying, ensuring the consistency that has defined their reputation among specialty roasters.

The farm is situated at an elevation of approximately 2,050 meters above sea level, a high-altitude environment that contributes to the slow maturation and high density of their coffee cherries. This specific microclimate is essential for the development of the complex chemical profiles found in their harvests. By focusing on quality over volume, the Florez family has successfully positioned El Silencio as a notable source for specialty-grade Colombian coffee.

El Silencio is particularly recognized for its cultivation of the Chiroso variety. Chiroso is an Ethiopian landrace variety that has been newly adapted to the Colombian landscape. In the context of specialty coffee, this variety is prized for its extraordinary potential, often exhibiting bright, floral, and fruit-forward characteristics that distinguish it from more traditional regional cultivars. The successful integration of this variety into their farm highlights the producers' willingness to innovate while maintaining traditional agricultural stewardship.

Processing at El Silencio is handled with precision to maximize the inherent qualities of the Chiroso variety. Their washed process involves same-day depulping followed by a six-day underwater fermentation period. This extended fermentation is a technical choice that contributes to the coffee's structured profile and vibrant cup clarity. The resulting cup is frequently noted for its distinct notes of gooseberry, lychee, and delicate chamomile, reflecting the careful management of both the plant and the post-harvest processing.

For the specialty coffee industry, the work of Marta and Jose Florez represents the importance of producer-led quality initiatives. By focusing on specific varieties and rigorous processing standards, they provide roasters with a product that offers a clear, traceable narrative of origin and craft. Their partnership with roasters, such as SEY Coffee, has helped bring their specific lot profiles to a wider audience, demonstrating the value of direct relationships in the specialty supply chain.

The story of Marta and Jose Florez stands as a testament to the impact of smallholder dedication in the Antioquia region. As they continue to refine their practices at El Silencio, their work remains a reference point for the potential of the Chiroso variety in Colombia. Their trajectory from local farmers to recognized producers of high-density, high-clarity coffee underscores the ongoing evolution of Colombian specialty coffee production.