Entre Montañas Mokka

Wait what, a Mokka? – No, we are not talking about the sweet espresso based drink with chocolate and milk. This Mokka is a rare variety grown in steeply sloped mountainside at Las Marias farm, in Colombia by farmer José Giraldo.

This Mokka is naturally processed, emphasizing its vibrant flavors of cranberry, black tea, and orange, resulting in a complex yet balanced and clean cup.

Entre Montañas Mokka

Farm: Finca Las Marias
Farmer: José Giraldo
Location: Pijao, Colombia
Altitude: 1950 masl
Varietal:  Mokka
Process:  Natural

Expect notes of: Cranberry, Black tea, Orange

The Fascinating Story of Mokka

The Mokka varietal traces its origins to Yemen, likely named after the ancient port of Mocha. A probable mutation of the Bourbon varietal, Mokka shares a close genetic relationship with its more famous counterpart. Today, Mokka is cultivated in select regions around the world, most notably in Hawaii, where it’s fondly referred to as Maui Mokka.

This coffee varietal is renowned for its unique physical characteristics, including its tiny cherries and beans, which are round and dense, delivering intense flavors. The Mokka tree, with its bushy structure and narrow leaves, is extremely low yielding, making it a challenging yet rewarding choice for dedicated farmers like José Giraldo.

Meet the Farmer: José Giraldo

José Giraldo is a third-generation coffee producer whose family has cultivated coffee for over 50 years. At his farm, Finca Las Marias, José is continuing a legacy of innovation and excellence. Inspired by his father, who held a Ph.D. in food engineering, José has developed a unique approach to processing coffee, logging methods, and outcomes to ensure optimal quality.

Jose takes considerable risk focusing on unique varieties  such as Gesha,  Pink Bourbon, Mocca, and Wush Wush to grow and process. Cultivation of these varieties needs deeper and more comprehensive attention in Colombia’s unique microclimate.

José’s dedication to cultivating rare varietals like Mokka is a testament to his passion and expertise. Despite the challenges posed by these low-yielding and demanding plants, José’s commitment has earned him a reputation for producing some of the most exceptional coffees in the world.

Brewing tips by Manhattan

Ratio | 1:16.5 (eg. 250ml to 15 grams of coffee or 500ml to 30 grams of coffee. )

🫘 ground | finer to medium

00:00 | Gently pour 70grams of water on the center of the coffee bed in a slow swirling motion.

0:30 | pour another 100grams in a swirling motion

01:00-01:15 | When the water is halfway drained pour the remaining 80grams of water

01:30-01.45 | Give a soft swirl

02:00 – 03.00 | Let water drain

03:00 | Brewing should finish