Ismeria Leon

This washed microlot is sourced from woman producer Ismeria Leon, a member of the Aromas del Valle co-operative. Her 2ha farm in Santa Teresa, Callyuc, is situated at 2250masl, making it ideal for the production of specialty coffee due to its abundant sunshine and cool temperatures. Along with her sister Merly who also operates a farm in the region, Ismeria is driven and inquisitive, constantly seeking to improve quality and producitivity on the farm. This washed lot includes an extended 48 hour anaerobic fermentation before washing.

"I live in the Santa Teresa Village, in the province of Cutervo, Cajamarca, at 2252 meters above sea level. This is where I have built my life and where I strive every day to get ahead. My story with coffee began in 2015, when together with my neighbors we realised that our land had something special. We realised that the conditions here are perfect for coffee, and that with effort we could grow something unique. So I ventured out and started planting, step by step, learning and taking care of each plant with my own hands. Every day I look around me and feel grateful for what surrounds me. My land, my children, and the coffee that with effort we have made our own. I feel proud of who I am and what we are building together." - Ismeria Leon

Queromarca is one of the areas where coffee was produced for the first time in the entire district of Callayuc. Formerly they were producers of corn, potatoes or cattle, Queromarca is located at an elevation above 2000 meters above sea level and has several microclimates ideal for the production of specialty coffees.

The region of Callayuc is one of the districts of the Cutervo province, Cajamarca, in the north of Peru. It is a territory that features a typical tropical jungle with abundant biodiversity and fertile valleys in its centre. Its altitude varies from 690 masl. at its lowest point to more than 2,800 masl at its highest point. Its geographical conditions allow the existence of a vast flora and fauna, and local producers cover the agricultural lands of Cullayuc with permanent crops and natural forests, especially with coffee.

A few minutes from Callayuc, is the Viluco Waterfall, also known as "bridal veil". This is a beautiful waterfall located in a warm climate that tourists can easily access. On the way to the waterfall, you can appreciate impressive views, characteristic of the northern Peruvian Andes.

Also, in the Callayuc region you will find Cerro Pabellon, which is a mountain peak that exceeds 2200 meters above sea level and is mostly surrounded by forest. This peak is also part of a chain of local mountains, with endemic characteristics and is considered a wildlife refuge. Very close to this peak is the Cordillera del Wissus, also known as Huichus, which has a maximum altitude of 2817 meters above sea level. This mountain range is home to reserve water sources and refuge of important wildlife, varied flora, and intertropical fauna.

Ripe cherries are floated to further select the densest (highest quality) cherries for processing. The cherries are then fermented for 48 hours, pulped, fermented again for 42 hours, and then washed and dried on raised African beds. Drying takes an average of 17-18 days.

The Aromas del Valle co-operative have been providing training on fermentation in recent seasons as a way to increase cup complexity and the value added to farmers' coffee.