Urcunina group

The Urcunina group is not a single farm, but a collective of coffee producers operating in the shadow of the Galeras volcano in La Florida, Nariño, Colombia. The name 'Urcunina' is deeply rooted in local heritage, derived from the indigenous Quillasingas language, which uses the term to describe the prominent volcano that dominates the regional landscape. By adopting this name for their coffee, the producers sought to create a distinct identity that separates their output from other regional offerings, grounding their product in the specific geography and cultural history of their home.

The formation of this group is inextricably linked to the Borderlands project, an initiative launched in 2012 by the global humanitarian organization Catholic Relief Services (CRS). The project aimed to connect smallholder coffee growers in Nariño with international specialty markets by improving production standards and fostering organizational strength. Through this collaboration, the farmers established the ASPROCAES association, a formal structure that allowed them to pool resources, share technical knowledge, and negotiate more effectively within the global supply chain.

For the producers of Urcunina, the association serves as a vehicle for both economic and social resilience. By uniting their efforts, these farmers have been able to transform their production processes, moving toward higher-quality specialty standards that command better market recognition. This collaborative model emphasizes the importance of camaraderie and empowerment, viewing the coffee not merely as a commodity, but as a tangible result of community-led development and improved agricultural practices.

In terms of sensory profile, Urcunina coffee is frequently cited as a classic representation of the Nariño region. The traditional washed process yields a cup characterized by a sweet, balanced base of caramel and chocolate, often accented by notes of dried fruit. These flavor profiles are a direct result of the high-altitude growing conditions and the meticulous post-harvest handling practiced by the members of the ASPROCAES association, who have worked closely with partners like Counter Culture Coffee to refine their quality control.

Beyond traditional methods, the Urcunina group has demonstrated a commitment to innovation by exploring experimental processing techniques. A notable example is their anaerobic honey-processed coffee, which has introduced a different dimension to their portfolio. This method, which involves fermenting the coffee cherries in an oxygen-deprived environment before drying them with the mucilage intact, results in a distinctively syrupy body and complex fruit-forward notes, such as plum and red grape, showcasing the group's technical versatility.

The success of the Urcunina group highlights the impact of long-term, structured support in the specialty coffee sector. By focusing on supply chain transparency and the professionalization of smallholder associations, the group has successfully transitioned from isolated farming to a recognized, high-quality origin. For the roaster and the consumer, the Urcunina tag represents a commitment to sustainable, community-driven coffee production that prioritizes both the quality of the final cup and the empowerment of the farmers who cultivate it.