Villamaría is a high-altitude coffee-growing region in Caldas, Colombia, known for producing exceptional washed coffees. The cherries are grown by smallholder farmers at around 1800 MASL and include varieties such as Variedad Colombia and Castillo Naranjal. Once harvested, cherries are delivered the same day to 'Jamaica' the Raw Material washing station, where they are carefully sorted, pulped, and fermented before being dried on raised beds. This attention to detail results in consistently clean, vibrant coffees.
At the heart of Villamaría’s quality is the Jamaica washing station in Chinchiná, located 500 meters below the farms. This station was strategically chosen for its warm climate, ideal for drying washed, honey, and natural coffees. The use of optical sorting, mechanical dryers, and even a Nuna dehydrator ensures controlled processing and exceptional consistency. Jamaica processes cherries from 30–50 farming families in nearby communities like Villarazo, La Batea, and Corozal.
What makes this project truly unique is its impact on the local coffee-growing community. Selling whole cherries to a station like Jamaica is uncommon in Colombia, where most farmers traditionally sell processed parchment. This new model reduces labor for farmers, offers better pricing, and is fostering long-term trust—especially after years of broken promises from larger institutions. As more producers join each season, Villamaría stands as a thriving example of collaboration, quality, and shared success.
