This community blend is composed of lots from natural coffees sun-dried on clay patios and raised beds for approx. 19 days.
The Community Project is the inspiration of the El Borbollon mill, owned and operated by fourth-generation producer Eduardo Alvarez. Focused on small growers in the mill area with the potential to cultivate high-quality lots and the desire to pursue a sustainable model of production, the project launched with a roster of 25 farmers with an average of 5 ha. at high altitude on the lush hills of Santa Ana, one of the main growing areas in El Salvador. The project has since expanded to include 100 farmers.
El Borbollon was able to launch a collaboration that ensured greater returns and better conditions for the producers involved in the Community Project. For some, the project represented their first-time meeting with buyers directly to learn about their focus of interest.
Most of the coffees grown by this group are heirloom arabicas and bourbons. El Borbollon is currently screening a mix of exotic and hybrid varietals with a view to creating an even more exciting portfolio for project producers.
The El Borbollon mill is managed by Eduardo Alvarez, whose coffee DNA dates back to 1892. Under Eduardo’s direction, El Borbollon has focused on increasing its access to specialty markets. The mill provides technical assistance and guidance to the smallholders they work with to create possibilities for their collaborators. The result: 15 high-altitude farms have placed in the country’s Cup of Excellence competition; 10 have won their categories; 4 (including Finca La Reforma, part of the Alvarez farming estate) received the CoE Presidential award for scores in excess of 90 points.
