El Ata
STORY
Protected by the beautiful Nevado del Huila and surrounded by the Ata River, lies the town of Planadas. This active volcano, combined with the Ata River, has given the region fertile volcanic soils and a range of microclimates that, matched with farmer’s dedication and hard work, has resulted in a unique cup profile. This area of Colombia suered firsthand the violence and control of the guerrilla groups, which hindered its development and progress. Even so, coffee was a big part of the legal economy of the area, and Caravela had been working with producers from the area since the early 2000s. In 2016, when the peace agreement was signed with the guerrilla group, coffee became a major force in Planadas which helped towards its development and growth. Nowadays, it has become a hub for specialty coffee.
For the inhabitants of Planadas, the Ata River has been an inspiration to create songs, a setting for many love stories and adventures, and has been part of lives of dozens of coffee growers in the region.
“El Ata is bright, tropical and complex. Expect notes of red fruits like sweet plum and cherry and milk chocolate.”
Farm Varieties
Size

Average Farm Size
3,5 Hectares
Location

Country

Municipality
Planadas

Department
Tolima

Elevation
1,400 – 2,100 MASL
Technical info

Harvest
First semester: April – August
Second semester: October – January

Processing Method
Washed

Shade
Guamo, Cedar and Cambulos.

Drying Method
Sun-dried on parabolic covered patios and raised beds.