Colombian Black Gold

The Whitford Coffee Company's renowned Columbian Black Gold Coffee Bean originates from the esteemed La Gallineta lot, where it undergoes a meticulous and selective hand-harvesting process. This carefully picked coffee is promptly delivered to the state-of-the-art mill at Las Mercedes, ensuring its freshness.

At the mill, the coffee cherries are swiftly pulped on the same day of harvesting. Following this, a special anaerobic fermentation process takes place, maintaining cool temperatures for a duration of 40 hours. To further enhance the coffee's quality, the cherries are eco-pulped, fully washed, and meticulously graded using a canal system.

Once the washing process is complete, the coffee is transported to raised beds for drying. During this stage, the beans are regularly turned to ensure optimal humidity levels are reached. This attention to detail and precision in the drying process is vital for achieving the desired flavour profiles.

Las Mercedes, the farm responsible for cultivating Columbian Black Gold, demonstrates a commitment to excellence in both agricultural practices and environmental stewardship. With a dedicated team of 15 permanent workers, and an additional 150 during harvest season, they continually research and implement the best farming techniques.

Renewal is a priority, as 20% of the trees are replaced annually, and disease-resistant and durable coffee varietals are being actively planted. In fact, an impressive 120,000 trees were planted in 2013 alone. The family behind the farm is constantly striving for innovative methods to enhance the overall quality of their coffee.

The primary harvest period occurs between November and February, during which 60% of the annual production is gathered. A secondary harvest takes place in April and June, accounting for the remaining 40% of the yield.

Las Mercedes has been recognised for its unwavering commitment to environmentally sustainable and socially responsible practices. As a result, they have achieved certifications such as Rainforest Alliance, UTZ Kapeh, and 4C, highlighting their dedication to protecting the environment and ensuring the well-being of their workers.

The combination of meticulous cultivation practices, innovative farming techniques, and a strong commitment to sustainability has made Columbian Black Gold from Las Mercedes a truly exceptional coffee that delights discerning coffee enthusiasts worldwide.