Peru – Tabaconas

Variety: Caturra, Pache, Bourbon, Typica

Producers: ~500 smallholders

Region: Cajamarca

Altitude: 1900–2200 m

Process: Honey

Tabaconas is a small, remote municipality tucked into the northern Peruvian Andes, within the San Ignacio province of Cajamarca. The area sits at elevations between 1,900 and 2,200 meters, where cool temperatures slow the ripening of coffee cherries, allowing for greater sugar development and more complex flavors. The region's volcanic soil, rich in organic matter, adds further character to an already distinctive cup.

The surrounding Tabaconas Namballe National Sanctuary: a protected natural reserve of 29,500 hectares of montane forest. It creates ideal shade-grown conditions that directly benefit coffee quality and preserve the area's remarkable biodiversity.

Around 500 smallholder farmers, each managing 1–3 hectare plots, produce coffee here through the Cenfrocafé cooperative. Founded in 1999 and representing over 4,200 members, Cenfrocafé provides technical training, market access, and ensures producers receive a price 20% above the local market rate. The cooperative holds Fair Trade, Organic, and Rainforest Alliance certifications.

Cup Profile: Consistently scoring above 86 points. Floral aroma with notes of citrus and brown sugar. A clean, sweet, and well-structured cup that reflects the altitude and volcanic terroir of one of Peru's most exciting origins.