Villa Betulia - Colombia
Let's talk about Villa Betulia farm. It's been in the game for about 15 years now. Back in the day, it was all about the classics – Castillo and Colombia varieties ruled the roost. But around 12 years ago, a change was in the air. They decided to mix things up. First came Geisha, a real game-changer. And you know what? It worked like a charm! So, they thought, why stop there? Now, Villa Betulia boasts over 20 varieties, and not a single one is your run-of-the-mill type. It's like a coffee carnival out there.
Exploring the Unique Flavours of Villa Betulia: A Coffee Lover’s Paradise
Nestled in the lush landscapes of Huila, Colombia, lies a coffee farm that is not just a place of cultivation but a beacon of innovation in the coffee world. Villa Betulia, under the careful stewardship of Luis Anibal Calderon, has been redefining the essence of specialty coffee for over 15 years.
A Journey of Transformation The story of Villa Betulia is one of passion and transformation. Initially known for its production of classic coffee varieties like Castillo and Colombia, the farm took a bold step about 12 years ago by introducing the Geisha variety. This move was not just a change; it was a revolution in their coffee cultivation practices. The success of Geisha paved the way for Villa Betulia to diversify its offerings, and today, the farm boasts an impressive collection of over 20 unique coffee varieties. Each variety is a testament to the farm’s commitment to quality and diversity, ensuring that every coffee enthusiast can find a flavour profile that resonates with them.
The Papayo Variety: A Flavorful Innovation Among the plethora of varieties, the Papayo stands out with its distinctive process that begins with a 24-hour tank immersion, allowing the cherries to absorb a symphony of fruity notes. A subsequent 36-hour fermentation in tanks further enhances the beans' characteristics, imbuing them with complex flavors. After depulping, the beans are sun-dried on blue patios for 12 days, followed by a 20-day cooling period to settle the flavors before milling. This meticulous process ensures that each cup of Villa Betulia’s Papayo coffee is an experience - rich with notes of amaretto, dried fruits, peach, and caramel.
Altitude and Quality: The Perfect Blend At an altitude of 1,800 meters above sea level, Villa Betulia’s location is ideal for coffee cultivation. The high altitude contributes to the slow growth of the coffee cherries, allowing them to develop a fuller flavor profile. This natural advantage, combined with the semi-washed process, results in a cup that is both vibrant and nuanced.
Luis Anibal Calderon: A Visionary Producer Luis Anibal’s vision for Villa Betulia extends beyond the farm. His efforts have created a ripple effect throughout the community of San Agustin, Huila, promoting specialty coffee and inspiring neighbors and relatives to pursue excellence in their coffee production.
Villa Betulia: More Than Just a Farm Villa Betulia is more than a farm; it’s a destination for those who seek the extraordinary in their coffee. With a profile that promises a carnival of flavors and a history rich with innovation, Villa Betulia invites coffee lovers to indulge in a cup that tells a story - a story of dedication, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of perfection.