Finca Bethania - Nicaragua

Origin: Nicaragua, Nueva Segovia Producer: Finca Bethania
Altitude: 1400 masl
Variety: Maracaturra
Process: Honey

Nestled in the serene landscapes of El Suyatal, Macuelizo, Nueva Segovia, you'll find Finca Bethania, a tranquil haven of coffee cultivation and friendship. This idyllic plantation derives its name from the Catholic faith, symbolizing a place where Jesus found peace and visited his dear friends Lázaro, María, and Marta. The name Bethania is emblematic of tranquility, friendship, and hospitality, qualities which echo throughout the farm's lush terrain.

Martha Lucía Albir Sotomayor, the visionary behind Finca Bethania, has been nurturing this piece of paradise since 1991. The plantation has grown over the years to span a generous 27.25 hectares, providing sustenance and employment to many. The farm employs a permanent worker and welcomes an additional 70 workers during the harvest season, marking a significant contribution to the local economy.
Finca Bethania is cradled at an elevation ranging around 1350 meters, boasting fertile, sandy loam soil and an ideal climate for coffee cultivation. The estate primarily nurtures coffee varieties like Catimor, Catuai Rojo, Java, Maracaturra, and Pacamara, and its dedication to sustainability is seen in the eco-friendly cultivation methods used.

This plot, spreading over 7.39 hectares between 1300 and 1400 meters above sea level, exclusively grows Maracaturra variety. The coffee on this plot is grown under the shade of forest and fruit trees, demonstrating a deep commitment to sustainable agriculture. Low-intensity pesticides, organic and synthetic fertilisers are used to support the farm's health, while pruning and shade management practices ensure the crop's quality.
Once the coffee beans have matured to perfection, they are carefully harvested, floated, and depulped. Following an intricate process of fermentation over 24 to 36 hours, the coffee is transferred to a dry mill, where it is laid out on African beds for drying. The coffee never touches the ground and is constantly moved with PVC rakes to ensure uniform drying.
After reaching the optimal humidity levels between 11 and 11.5%, the coffee is stored in a specially designated area within the warehouse, maintaining strict separation from other coffees. The storage uses new plastic and macen sacks, ensuring the coffee's integrity and quality until it is ready for export.
Once rested for a month, the coffee is hulled and sorted according to client specifications, packed in jute and Ecotact bags with the corresponding ICO code. Despite the challenges posed by climate change and rising production costs, Finca Bethania stays committed to producing premium coffee and contributing to the local community. The plantation supports various educational social projects, providing school supplies to local primary schools.

The payment to the farmers depends on the quality of the grain, ensuring fair compensation for the hard work put into every harvest. As for the future, the plans for investment and development include improving the wet processing system and implementing coffee pre-drying tunnels.
The farm is primarily focused on coffee cultivation, and the passion for producing the finest coffee is palpable. Despite the trials of nature and economics, Finca Bethania continues its unwavering devotion to producing some of the finest coffee while fostering a community of friendship and peace.