Juan Carlos Pamplona
The Legacy of a Coffee Dream
In the Matecaña trail of Apía, Risaralda, amidst mountains covered in green and morning fog, lies Finca El Recuerdo, a name that evokes history, tradition, and a love for coffee. There, at 1,800 meters above sea level, Juan Carlos Pamplona has built his life and his legacy, cultivating not only coffee but also the future of his family.
His story begins with an act of trust and love: his father handed over the farm to him nine years ago, certain that under his care, it would grow with the same dedication and effort that he had put into it. And so it was. Juan Carlos, with 15,000 trees of the Castillo and Supremo varieties, has perfected each process, ensuring that every harvested bean reflects his passion and commitment to the land.
Every two weeks, with an expert eye and a patient heart, he selects the cherries at their optimal ripeness. His processing begins with the flotation to separate defective cherries, ensuring quality from the very first moment. He then ferments them for 48 hours, allowing each bean to develop its best expression before becoming the coffee that so many people enjoy.
But beyond the numbers and processes, Juan Carlos is in love with the countryside, a man who has built his home among coffee plants, teaching his family by example about the importance of patience, hard work, and respect for nature. For him, every dawn on the farm is a reminder that life in the countryside is a choice of love and dedication, one he has embraced with pride.
In every cup of his coffee, you can feel his story: his father’s heritage, the effort of his hands, and the deep affection for his land. Juan Carlos Pamplona does not only cultivate coffee; he cultivates roots, dreams, and the legacy of a tradition that will remain alive in every harvest.
