Costa Rica Sumava Lactico

Francisco Mena has been a long-standing farm-level partner and producer of exceptional Costa Rican coffees. On his farm, Sumava de Lourdes, he cultivates a range of varieties, including Caturra, SL-28, Gesha, and notably, Villa Sarchi.

This particular variety is well-suited to the high elevations and windy conditions of the Lourdes de Naranjo micro-region. Its compact growth habit contributes to producing dense, uniform seeds—an ideal foundation for high-quality coffee.

Mena uses this exceptional raw material to explore a balance between traditional and experimental processing methods. A standout technique in his repertoire is a proprietary take on lactic fermentation, which amplifies fruit complexity in the cup. After harvest, whole cherries are sealed in tanks, where native microbes interact with natural sugars, unlocking a range of vibrant and nuanced flavors. Once fermentation is complete, the cherries are de-pulped, washed, and carefully dried on raised beds—each step executed with meticulous attention by Mena’s dedicated team.

His commitment to excellence doesn't stop at the farm. Through his export company, Exclusive Coffees, Mena ensures that every lot meets rigorous quality standards. His skilled lab team thoroughly evaluates each shipment before export. It’s this deep-rooted dedication to quality and integrity that keeps us coming back to Exclusive Coffees year after year.

We’re proud to share this coffee with you—and we hope you enjoy it as much as we do.