Our Colombian single origin comes from the renowned region of Antioquia, Colombia. We chose this coffee as it’s perfect for Spring, being delicately roasted to enhance its fruity and juicy attributes: apple, blackcurrant, and toffee. It comes from a 438-hectare farm nestled in the picturesque Andes, called Finca La Arboleda, which is where our journey begins.
Originally spanning a modest 15 hectares, this farm underwent a remarkable transformation under the stewardship of Mr. Rigoberto Franco Arroyave, or Rigo, as he’s better known. In the 1950s, Rigo's mother acquired the farm, which at the time was home to both cattle and coffee. However, it was in 1978 when Rigo took the reins, envisioning a future of sustainability and excellence in coffee production.
Left: Santiago, Head of Coffee Sourcing for Caffe Nero, Right: Rigo, owner of Finca La Arboleda.
Rigo's vision extended far beyond merely growing great coffees. He embarked on a journey to innovate and elevate Colombian coffee to new heights. Through strategic land acquisitions and a relentless pursuit of quality, Finca La Arboleda became synonymous with excellence in coffee cultivation. Rigo's dedication to sustainability is evident in every aspect of the farm's operations, from selective hand-picking during harvests to the meticulous processing methods.
Rigo's impact stretches way beyond his farm boundaries. He's not your average farmer - he's a visionary entrepreneur who has expanded his business horizons, creating thriving ventures across the Colombian coffee industry. Whether it's extracting antioxidants from coffee byproducts or crafting a bottled coffee beverage that has become a nationwide sensation, Rigo's creative breakthroughs have revolutionized Colombia's coffee scene. Additionally, his pivotal roles as both a prominent figure and director within a top-tier coffee cooperative underscore his dedication to propelling the industry forward on a grand scale.
The story of Finca La Arboleda and Mr. Rigoberto Franco Arroyave encapsulates the essence of Colombian coffee at its finest. Through dedication, innovation, and a deep-rooted commitment to sustainability, Rigo has not only transformed his farm into a model of excellence but has also left a permanent mark on the Colombian coffee industry. With each sip of Colombian coffee, we are reminded of the passion and dedication that goes into every cup, making it an experience worth savouring time and time again.
