Jose Elcias Martinez
PARTNER’S NAME: FRANCY INGA
FINCA EL CASINO STORY
Jose Martinez was born and raised on a coffee farm in a traditionally coffee-growing family. From his parents, he learned everything about coffee, from taking care of the coffee trees to practicing good post-harvesting techniques. When he was just 16 years old, he decided to leave home and ended up working as a bus driver. For more than a decade, he traveled throughout the entire country, from north to south, and from east to west, becoming familiar with all the roads in Colombia. One day, he decided to return to his home in search of a more stable life. He purchased his father’s old farm to start paving a new path, following in his father’s footsteps.
José Martinez has become a unique farmer. He is passionate, innovative, and constantly seeks opportunities and advice to improve and enhance his quality. He keeps his trees healthy and prunes them meticulously. He measures his fermentation process to determine the optimal endpoint for each fermentation, achieving the perfect balance of flavors. In 2014, José Martinez had a very small 4×8 drying facility. Over the years, with the additional income he has earned, he has been able to expand his drying patios and improve the infrastructure. Jose’s life has completely transformed since he started producing specialty coffee. The extra income he receives has changed his mindset and perspective on coffee. He now takes meticulous care of every single step of the process.
Farm Varieties
Size

Total Farm Area
12,0219 Hectares

Area in Coffee
8,295 Hectares
Location

Country
Colombia

Municipality
Palestina

Department
Huila

Elevation
1,725 MASL
Technical info

Harvest
First semester: April – August.
Second semester: September – December.

Processing Method
Washed.

Shade
Guamos, Carbonero.

Drying Method
Canopy or solar tent or roof for 15 days.