Penas Blancas · SwpDecaf

Sourced through Lohas, this decaffeinated Pink Bourbon showcases the innovation and dedication of Jhoan Vergara, a third-generation coffee producer from Pitalito, Huila. Together with his brother Diego, Jhoan operates Finca Las Flores in Acevedo, where tradition meets experimentation. At the Peñas Blancas Mill—co-founded with Nestor Lasso—Jhoan applies advanced processing techniques, including thermal shock and controlled anaerobic fermentation, to enhance clarity and complexity in the cup.

Grown at 1,750 metres above sea level, this microlot reflects a meticulous approach at every stage. Cherries undergo 36 hours of oxidation, followed by flotation and disinfection, before being depulped and fermented anaerobically with mucilage for another 36 hours. Fermentation is then halted using hot water at 50°C, preserving aromatic intensity while stabilising the profile. Drying takes place in a sealed stainless-steel dehumidifier over 36–40 hours, followed by a one-week resting period to ensure consistency.

The coffee is then decaffeinated in Canada using the Swiss Water® Process, a 100% chemical-free method that removes 99.9% of caffeine while maintaining the coffee’s original flavour integrity.Beyond processing, sustainability is central to the Vergara family’s work. From a modest three-hectare farm, they have expanded to 16 hectares while planting over 2,000 shade trees to improve soil health and microclimate. The result is a decaf coffee that is vibrant, expressive, and uncompromising in quality, proof that decaffeination can exist without sacrificing character.