José Leiver Fernandez is a coffee producer in the Querocoto district of Cajamarca. The area lies geographically near the famous coffee province of Jaén, but features a dramatically different climate. Historically known for cattle ranching, Querocoto was defined by a high average altitude of 2,300 meters and sprawling pastures.

Coffee production in the area began in the 1990s when migrant harvesters returned from Jaén and San Ignacio with seeds to plant on their own land. The plants quickly adapted to the high altitudes, and the crop promptly expanded throughout the region.

Many Querocoto farmers, including Leiver Fernandez, hold a deep respect for the local flora, and integrate native plants into their coffee production -- namely, the quina tree. Known for producing quinine, the first discovered cure for malaria and a key ingredient in tonic water, the quina trees thrive among coffee plantations in Querocoto, offering necessary shade and organic matter.

Expect a flavor profile centered on sweet brown sugar and pecan, lifted by subtle notes of dried stonefruit. 

REGION

Cajamarca

VARIETY

Caturra, Pache

PROCESS

Washed

ALTITUDE

2377 MASL

NOTES

Cinnamon, Brown Sugar, Dried Apricot