Ecuador Las Tolas

TASTING NOTES: Bartlett Pear / Caramel / Creamy

Every once in a while, a coffee comes along that changes everything we thought we knew about a country of origin. Less often, a coffee is able to defy our expectations of a cultivar. In graceful and luminous fashion, this Pacamara from Ecuador has done both. It is a very special coffee from a very special place. For the indigenous Yumbos, who based their year on a lunar calendar, Las Tolas proved to be the only valley with enough of a break in the clouds to provide a clear view of the moon. It is a sacred area with ruins still scattered across its forests. The valley has outstanding altitude (1800-2100 masl), fertile soils, and receives an annual average of 1700mm of rainfall.

Arnaud Causse is part of a small group of farmers in the area who are redefining the standards of specialty coffee in Ecuador, this Pacamara exhibits a delicate floral and tropically sweet character, and has a soothing body that pleases any palate and intrigues the connoisseur.

Produced by Arnaud Causse in the Las Tolas region of Ecuador, this lot showcases the distinct characteristics of the Pacamara varietal. Known for its large bean size and complex profile, this cultivar often bridges the gap between deep sweetness and vibrant acidity. When roasted by Flying Goat Coffee, the cup highlights a refined balance, presenting notes of Bartlett pear, caramel, and a creamy mouthfeel.

While individual results vary based on processing and terroir, coffees from high-elevation regions like Las Tolas frequently exhibit a dense, structured body. To better understand the nuances of these specific descriptors, tasters can reference the flavor wheel to identify the underlying aromatic compounds. This offering serves as a compelling example of how careful cultivation at 1800-2100 masl can elevate the inherent qualities of the Pacamara plant, resulting in a sophisticated and approachable experience for the discerning palate.