The relationship between Panther Coffee’s Joel Pollock and coffee producer Francisco Valle Garcia began over fifteen years ago. Joel remembers sitting with Javier in the rainy parking lot of their favorite Portland, OR hangout and listening as Javier gave detailed instructions to his brother who was managing their coffee farm in Jinotega. Francisco’s enthusiasm, superlative knowledge of coffee production, and dedication to quality inspire us and have made Francisco and Finca la Amistad an important part of Panther Coffee. Year after year, we have brought in exceptional lots of coffee from Finca la Amistad. Sitting in that rainy Portland parking lot, neither Joel nor Javier could have imagined the promise that their working relationship held: this year we have brought in exactly 190 bags to roast at Panther Coffee.

Developing and maintaining long-term relationships with coffee farmers is the heart of what we do. As a committed buyer we can help these coffee producers grow their projects and succeed. At the same time, our successes are impossible without these producers. We see our relationship with Francisco as the perfect expression of our values and are thankful for our continued work together.

This coffee has a wide appeal. It is mild, sweet and approachable with a silky body and prominent notes of caramel and baking spices. We are happy to share with you this appropriately named lot from Finca la Amistad.