Philippines - Finca de Garces Ethiopian Landrace
A place nestled deep in Bukidnon's Mt. Kalatungan, the Philippine Coffee Quality Competition 2023 champion Finca de Garces stands proud. What began as a response to the challenges posed by the pandemic has turned into a venture of discoveries. From starting a pandemic project to becoming one of the country’s best coffee producers, the Garces family offers an inspiring history alongside their award-winning coffees. When Covid-19 made the “new normal” seem impossible for everyone , couple Manolito (aka Lito) and Gemma Garces started coffee farming as a family project during the pandemic. This allowed them to not only adapt to the challenging times but also cultivate their shared interest in coffee, bringing them closer together as a family while discovering a new passion. Little did they know that this would be the humble beginning of Finca de Garces.
Formerly known as the Sweet Coffee varietal, the Ethiopian Landrace varietal that grows in Finca de Garces has traces to the Heirloom coffee in Ethiopia (confirmed by World Coffee Research). This was also the same varietal that made Finca de Garces champion at the Philippine Coffee Quality Competition 2023. The Ethiopian Landrace shares striking resemblances to the revered gesha variety, showcasing floral notes, balanced flavors, and a harmonious sweetness.