Brumas del Zurquí Typica Natural

This remarkably smooth, layered cup opens with aromas of vanilla, primrose, white peach, and roasted hazelnut. We found notes of honey, oolong tea, and rosehip in the cup, with gala apple acidity. Notes of caramel, hazelnut, and a bit of wild strawberry linger in the aftertaste. 

Details

Producer: Juan Ramón Alvarado Farm: Finca Brumas del Zurquí Region: Heredia Altitude: 1,650 MASL Varietal: Typica Process: Natural Roast: Light Notes: Hazelnut, Rosehip, Honey

The Story

Juan Ramón Alvarado is a fourth-generation farmer and the current caretaker of Finca Brumas del Zurquí, a 125-year-old farm in Costa Rica’s Heredia canton, just outside San Jose. Now a specialty coffee estate focused on regenerative agriculture, Finca Brumas del Zurquí has evolved significantly over the years. Alvarado exclusively uses eco-friendly products on his land, adhering to strict ecological standards to benefit the environment and improve the quality and yield of his coffee.

Juan and his family began expanding their processing infrastructure in 2003-2004, building a mill, cupping laboratory, and roastery to maintain quality control. In the past few years they have faced labor shortages due to both the pandemic and workers moving to other countries in search of other employment. However, Juan takes great pride in what he does and is glad to have been able to build a family and provide a positive social and economic impact to his community through coffee.

Our COO and green coffee buyer met Juan Ramón Alvarado at the 2024 Coffee Expo in Houston, introduced by our longtime Direct Trade partner Juan Diego de la Cerda of Finca El Socorro. We look forward to visiting the farm in 2026 to solidify a new Direct Trade relationship!

Produced by Juan Ramón Alvarado in the Heredia region of Costa Rica, the Brumas del Zurquí Typica Natural is a distinct offering from PT's Coffee Roasting. This lot features the Typica varietal, a plant historically significant for its role in the global spread of coffee cultivation. Grown at 1650 masl, the cherries undergo a natural process, a method where the fruit remains intact during drying, which often influences the final cup profile.

In the cup, this coffee presents a nuanced balance of hazelnut, rosehip, and honey. While specific sensory experiences vary, enthusiasts often consult a flavor wheel to identify these complex characteristics. Natural-processed coffees frequently exhibit a heavier body and pronounced sweetness compared to washed counterparts, while the Typica varietal is often celebrated for its classic, clean cup profile. This specific selection highlights the meticulous work of Alvarado in the high-altitude environment of Heredia.