Coffee is much more than a drink. It is a source of life, of conversations and, in Colombia, also a tool for building peace. In a country with a past marked by decades of armed conflict, specialty coffee has become an opportunity to heal wounds and foster reconciliation. In this article, we invite you to learn about Project Paz, an initiative that not only seeks to produce exceptional coffee, but also transform lives and communities in marginal and vulnerable areas of Colombia.
A Glance at the Peace Project
In Colombia, specialty coffee is more than a drink. It is a means to generate hope and opportunity in the midst of regions that have been hit by violence and war. The Peace Project is an inspiring example of how coffee can be an agent of change in the lives of people and communities.
This project operates in different areas of the country, especially in Antioquia and Tolima, where it works directly with victims of the conflict, ex-combatants of armed groups, indigenous communities affected by violence and in the substitution of illicit crops. The mission is clear: improve the quality of life of coffee producers, raise the quality of their product and, ultimately, contribute to the construction of peace in Colombia.
The Origin Coffee
The heart of Project Peace is located in the Urrao region of Antioquia, an area known for its history of violence due to drug trafficking and the active presence of a group called the "gulf clan." Despite the challenges, the coffee grown here is exceptional.
Urrao farmers work in difficult conditions, but their passion and dedication to coffee is evident in every bean. The altitude of between 2,000 and 2,200 meters above sea level, the varieties of Caturra Chiroso and the process of washing followed by drying in the sun for 72 hours contribute to a coffee of exceptional quality.
Unique Flavors and Aromas
A cup of coffee from the Peace Project is a unique sensory experience. Its fragrance and aroma transport us to a world of lemon herbs and caramel, while the flavor surprises us with notes of arequipe (caramel cream) and white tea. The residual flavor is long and fruity, with an acidity that stands out for its fruity and citrus character. It's no wonder this coffee has earned an impressive score of 87.5 from the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA).
Beyond Coffee: Reforestation and Conservation
The Paz Project is not limited to improving the quality of coffee and the lives of producers, it is also concerned about the preservation of the environment. The Urrao region is part of the Andean bear corridor, home to the only species of bear that lives in South America. To protect this vital habitat, the project reinvests part of fair trade prices into reforestation projects.
Conclusion
The Peace Project in Colombia is much more than a story about coffee; is a testament to how coffee can be a positive force in building peace and sustainable development in communities affected by conflict. By enjoying a cup of specialty coffee from this project, you are not only experiencing exceptional flavor, but also contributing to a brighter and more prosperous future for Colombia and its inhabitants. Every sip is an affirmation that peace is possible, even in the most challenging circumstances.
You can buy their coffee by clicking on the photo below.
