Colombia Chiroso De San Carlos

COUNTRY: Colombia
REGION: Urrao, Antioquia
FARM: El Vergel Estate
VARIETY: Chiroso
PROCESS: Washed
ELEVATION: 1800 M
CUPPING NOTES: Macadamia, Honey, Apricot

      The Chiroso de San Carlos Project is all about unlocking the potential of the Chiroso coffee variety while supporting the hardworking farmers of Urrao, Antioquia. Nestled in the Penderisco River valley at 1,900 meters above sea level, Urrao is a region with deep agricultural roots, where coffee is more than just a crop—it’s a way of life. This project brings together 10 dedicated producers, teaching them new processing techniques to improve quality and help Urrao gain recognition in the world of specialty coffee.
     The journey of Chiroso San Carlos begins with the meticulous selection of ripe Chiroso cherries, a variety prized for its floral and citrus-forward profile. Once harvested, the cherries undergo a floating process to remove leaves, debris, and underripe beans, followed by a rigorous manual sorting to ensure only the finest cherries proceed.
     The first step in processing is a 12-hour aerobic pre-fermentation in cherry, which enhances the coffee’s inherent sweetness and complexity. After this stage, the cherries are depulped and transferred into sealed plastic tanks for a 36-hour anaerobic fermentation. This controlled fermentation environment refines the coffee’s acidity and deepens its flavor structure, bringing out layered notes of panela, tropical fruit, and chocolate.
     Following fermentation, the coffee is thoroughly washed and then sun-dried on patios for 12 to 16 days. This gradual drying process ensures optimal moisture retention while preserving the vibrant citric acidity and sugary sweetness that define this microlot.
     To achieve peak stability, Chiroso San Carlos rests for 24 hours before undergoing a 30-day stabilization period in GrainPro bags. This crucial step allows the flavors to mature and harmonize, ensuring a balanced and polished cup.
     This coffee brews a super approachable cup and is very tame on the acidity for a lighter roast.  It is pleasantly smooth and rich with a candied nuttiness and stone fruit sweetness.