Maria Nila, Peru

Description:

Tasting notes:

Hazelnut, Cranberry, Golden Raisin

Coffee info:

• Producer: Maria Nila - Smallholder
• 
Location: Huabal, Cajamarca
• Elevation: 1700 - 1900 masl

• Variety: Caturra
• Process: Fully Washed

More info:

Nestled in the highlands of northern Peru, Finca El Lanche spans just 2.5 hectares in the hamlet of El Paraíso, within the district of Huabal, Jaén, Cajamarca. Owned and operated by María Nila and her family, the farm reflects generations of knowledge and dedication to coffee cultivation. María Nila began producing coffee in her youth to support her family, continuing a tradition passed down by her parents.

The farm is primarily planted with Caturra and Bourbon varieties selected with guidance from her family and neighbours for their excellent cup quality, high productivity, and resistance to oxidation. In recent years, María Nila has focused her efforts on refining fermentation and drying techniques to further elevate the quality of her coffee. Most of the farm work is carried out by the family themselves, with additional help sourced locally during the harvest season.

Cherries are handpicked at peak ripeness and undergo a fermentation process lasting between 20 and 30 hours. After this, they are dried naturally. While Finca El Lanche currently specializes in natural processing, María Nila continues to experiment with new methods, including extended fermentation techniques inspired by the washed process. Her aim is to explore the full spectrum of flavour potential in her coffees, especially as the family looks to expand into exotic varieties prized for their complexity.

Agronomic practices at Finca El Lanche are intentionally low-impact. María Nila uses small amounts of chemical fertiliser in combination with organic matter to maintain soil health and seasonal productivity. All fieldwork, from brush clearing to harvesting, is done manually, which underscores the hands-on, community-driven nature of the farm.

As a female coffee grower and entrepreneur, María Nila continues to push boundaries in pursuit of quality, sustainability, and legacy. Her work not only uplifts her family but also contributes to the broader recognition of Peruvian coffee on the global stage.