Costa Rica - Casa De Piedra

Finca Casa de Piedra is one of two farms managed by Café Directo, a family-run business established in 2013 by father-daughter duo Gerardo and Jennifer Arias. The farm is devoted to producing, processing, and promoting exceptional Tarrazú coffees from Costa Rica, all while maintaining a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.

Café Directo’s mission is to support societal development through fair and ethical trade practices.

With over 30 years of combined experience in specialty micro-lot coffee production and processing, the founders bring deep expertise to their work. The farm’s unique microclimate, rich soil, and high elevations reaching up to 1,800 meters above sea level, create ideal conditions for cultivating a diverse range of coffee varieties, including Catuai, Pacamara, and Gesha.

Their carefully controlled anaerobic process begins with hand-selecting ripe cherries based on Brix readings, followed by 48 hours of patio pre-drying. Fermentation takes place in sealed plastic tanks, with close monitoring of temperature, sugar levels, aroma, and appearance. Finally, the cherries are dried on raised beds for about 30 days to develop a rich, complex flavor profile.

Produced by Gerardo and Jennifer Arias, the Costa Rica - Casa De Piedra represents the meticulous craftsmanship found within the Tarrazú region. This specific lot is defined by its anaerobic processing, a technique that often introduces complex, wine-like acidity and intensified sweetness compared to traditional methods. As with many high-quality offerings from Clifton Coffee Roasters, the focus here remains on highlighting the unique terroir of the Arias family farm.

When evaluating such distinct profiles, it is helpful to consult the flavor wheel to better identify the nuanced characteristics that anaerobic fermentation can impart. While every harvest varies, the combination of the region’s specific climate and this controlled fermentation process creates a cup that stands apart from standard washed lots. This coffee serves as an excellent example of how modern processing methods can elevate the inherent qualities of Costa Rican beans, offering a sophisticated experience for those exploring the diverse landscape of specialty coffee.