Ecuador El Alisal, Typica Mejorado, Washed

Finca El Alisal is a renowned coffee farm with multiple recent accolades to its name. Located in Fundochamba in the South of Ecuador, the Jaramillo family has been growing coffee here for over 60 years. Yet it is only since Leonidas Jaramillo took over - in 2017 - that they focus on specialty coffee and in particular, the best scoring varieties in Ecuador. El Alisal, “the Alder Grove”, is named after the alder trees for their presence in the area and their influence on the biodiversity and microclimate. These trees and other native species provide soil balance and enhance productivity through variation. One of the varieties growing here is Typica Mejorado, which is probably a crossing between Bourbon and an Ethiopian landrace. This lot was grown at 2000 masl. After picking, the cherries are oxidized in open tanks and on drying beds to kickstart fermentation before depulping and washing. The parchment is first spread in the shade for two hours to reduce the humidity and then moved to polyshade greenhouses for controlled drying until the desired humidity is reached, or after approximately 12 to 15 days.

We sourced this coffee through our importing partner Makicuna.

The Ecuador El Alisal, sourced from the Jaramillo family in the Fundochamba region, represents a meticulous approach to high-altitude cultivation. Grown at 2000 masl, this lot features the Typica Mejorado varietal, a plant selection often noted for its unique cup profile compared to the traditional Typica lineage. By utilizing a washed process, the producers emphasize the inherent clarity and structural acidity of the bean, allowing the specific terroir of the Ecuadorian Andes to remain the focal point of the experience.

Roasted by MOK Coffee, this selection invites a deeper exploration of how processing and origin influence the final cup. When evaluating the nuances of such a specific lot, enthusiasts often find it helpful to reference a flavor wheel to better articulate the complex interplay between the varietal’s characteristics and the clean finish provided by the washing method. This coffee serves as a compelling example of the Jaramillo family’s commitment to quality in Fundochamba.