Las Brisas farm located in the Apaneca/Ilamatepec Region stands as a precious gem contributing to the beauty of this UNESCO’s well known Biosphere Reserve.

Las Brisas is owned by Pascri S.A. de C.V., a company represented by Mr. Gerardo Pascual, whose love for nature has made him to give Las Brisas a garden-like handling. In 1989 they bought a small piece of land with the idea of building a nice country house.

However, with time Mr. Pascual realized that growing coffee of excellent quality was an opportunity for them. Therefore, during a short period of time they bought other 3 pieces of land nearby the original and now Las Brisas accounts with 3.5 Ha in total.

Las Brisas is located at 1,750 meters above sea level, which contributes to a very cool temperature all year round, which allows a gradual ripening of the Bourbón and Pacamara cherries.

Due to Mr. Pascual’s conviction and resolution to reduce their environmental footprint, they have a minimum agrochemical use and have implemented a program of lumbricus compost production at the farm, which is an excellent fertilizer as well as it helps to soil protection. For 2009/2010 crop, they produced 8,000 Lbs. of compost and they have been increasing this volume every year in order to supply for the entire farm area.

Another highlight of this farm is the constant reforestation. Mr. Pascual has been performing by introducing foreign tree species, such as cherry, macadamia and maple trees, which have adapted very well at the farm.

Being among COE winners in 2014 has been such a great enticement for Mr. Pascual and his 3 permanent workers, since it was their goal ever since they knew about COE program a couple of years ago. They knew that in order to participate they needed to pay close attention to details such as picking coffee at optimal level of ripening and increase their production so that they could have enough to complete minimum lot required. This year due to the special rule in COE of submitting a smaller lot it was possible to enter in the competition.

Keeping heirloom varietals, Bourbón and Pacamara, at his farm is Mr. Pascual’s main focus, so he believes that preventive treatment against diseases as well as a good nutrition of plantation is what will give the farm the strength to face not only rust but also other type of diseases.

Having the opportunity of being in COE will give Las Brisas a higher level in its quality record, so the opportunity to showcase their coffee to many different buyers is one of the main expectations Mr. Pascual has.