The Origin

Situated on steep hillsides where the coastal sea breeze meets the last remaining patches of Pacific cloud forest, Costa Esmeraldas possesses a highly unique microclimate. The region experiences an overcast, misty dry season that prevents the soil from drying out. The Salazar family established these orchards on former cattle pasture, intercropping the cacao with timber trees, citrus, bananas, and papaya. This lush, intentional canopy acts as an agroforestry shield that reduces soil erosion while providing a safe habitat for local and endangered wildlife.

The exceptional quality of these large, uniform auburn beans stems from rigorous, same-day processing. All pods are harvested, broken, and transferred to the on-site fermentary within a single day. The beans are fermented using a meticulous 5.5-day cycle. From there, the beans move to sliding sun-drying decks. This zero-compromise operation supports over 40 full-time jobs in the rural local community.