Colombia Aura Diaz Papayo Washed

A remarkable coffee with a remarkable story

Thanks to the dedication of Aura Diaz

For more than 23 years, Aura Diaz has dedicated herself to growing coffee in Colombia. After being displaced from neighboring Putumayo in 2001, she began again with just 2,000 coffee trees. Year by year, she planted more, adding 500 to 1,000 trees at a time. Today, Aura cares for 11,000 trees, including Castillo, Papayo, and Pink Bourbon.

Papayo is one of Colombia’s most intriguing coffee varieties. Named for its cherries, which resemble tiny papayas, its origins remain something of a mystery. With characteristics reminiscent of both Pink Bourbon and Ethiopian Landrace coffees, Papayo is thought by some to be a variety that was rediscovered in Colombia’s Huila region. Its unusually large, dense beans also make it a coffee that requires special care in the roastery.

Aura has now achieved her goal of planting coffee across her entire farm. Her next chapter is focused on improving the farm’s infrastructure, including building an additional drying patio. Most importantly, her coffee has helped her educate her children and create a better life for her family.

We’re grateful to share this exceptional coffee and Aura’s story with you. Enjoy it while this limited harvest lasts.

Flavor Notes:  Lychee + Candied Orange + Silky Mouthfeel

Roast Level:  Light

The Colombia Aura Diaz Papayo Washed, roasted by Coffee By Design, offers a compelling look at the unique output of the Huila region. Produced by Aura Diaz, this lot features the Papayo varietal, which is often noted for its distinct profile. By utilizing the washed process, the producer emphasizes clarity and acidity, allowing the inherent characteristics of the cherry to shine through the cup.

While washed coffees are generally celebrated for their clean, vibrant acidity and precise flavor expression, this specific selection highlights a complex interplay of fruit-forward notes. When evaluating such profiles, enthusiasts often consult a flavor wheel to better identify the nuances of lychee and candied orange present here. The resulting silky mouthfeel provides a balanced structure, showcasing the meticulous care taken during cultivation and processing. This coffee serves as a refined example of the diversity found within Colombian specialty production.