Costa Rica Rio Negro Natural

Rio Negro was also the first farm in Costa Rica to receive Rainforest Alliance certification in 2001. Sustainable practices include annual soil testing to minimize fertilizer use, terraced coffee fields and drainage systems to reduce erosion, and a hydroelectric generator that powers the coffee mill. The mill also uses coffee parchment as biomass fuel, reducing the need for wood.

The farm also plays an important role in supporting its workers and the surrounding community. Hacienda Rio Negro employs about 50 full-time workers and provides housing, clean spring water, financial assistance, savings programs, and access to low-cost loans. Workers and their families have access to an on-site medical clinic with a doctor and dentist, as well as a daycare for children. The farm supports the local school by providing supplies and uniforms for workers’ children. Together, these efforts make Rio Negro not only a coffee-producing operation but a force for positive impact.

The Costa Rica Rio Negro Natural, sourced from the renowned Hacienda Rio Negro, represents a distinct expression of the Costa Rica terroir. By utilizing the natural process—where the coffee cherry remains intact while drying—producers often encourage the development of deeper, more complex sweetness and heavier body compared to washed counterparts. This specific lot is brought to you by Backyard Beans Coffee Co., highlighting their commitment to showcasing the unique characteristics inherent in high-quality, origin-focused beans.

When evaluating the nuances of this coffee, it is helpful to reference the flavor wheel to identify the specific fruit-forward or syrupy notes that often emerge from natural-processed coffees. Because the bean absorbs the sugars from the fruit during the drying phase, these coffees frequently offer a more intense sensory experience. This offering serves as an excellent example of how traditional processing methods can transform the profile of a single-origin harvest.