Before we start the tale, have you given a thought to February’s holiday? Surely your Valentine would love some Holler Roast. We will gift wrap, tuck in a card, and ship directly to the one you love.
My own valentine, Chuck, celebrates his birthday every February. That’s why this month’s Coffee Tale tells a story of coffee roasting in the U.S. as it relates – rather loosely – to his family. As you’ll see, the tale travels most of the way across the U.S.
In Kiswahili, they say “harambee.” It’s both an organizing principle and a tradition in Kenya, from the highland smallholds of which come the January Coffee of the Month. Harambee is the nation’s official motto and appears on its coat of arms.
In 1969 there was a new baby in the house, but not much sleep. That’s when I met Juan Valdez and his wonderful coffee. Actor Carlos Sánchez Jaramillo played the role from 1969 to 2006, having taken over from Cuban actor José F. Duval, who established the role in 1958. Jaramillo was succeeded in 2006 by Carlos Castañeda, a coffee grower from the town of Andes, Antioquia, Colombia. And all three actors were accompanied by the lovable, loaded mule Conchita (“little shell”), sometimes called Lana.
This Coffee Tale is longer than most, recognizing the importance of the Darkhorse Lodge project.
Operation Enduring Freedom began October 7, 2001, in response to the September 11 attacks. It started with air strikes in Afghanistan against Al Qaeda and the Taliban and expanded to other countries. OEF officially ended 13 years later, though operations in Afghanistan continue under the name Operation Freedom’s Sentinel. Read more
Cloud forests, rainforests, volcanoes, wild water, scuba diving, and zipline tours: Costa Rica screams adventure in 12 different climate zones. Plus, a 1989 law made it illegal to grow bad coffee – at least until the 30-year ban was lifted.
Welcome Holler Roast’s first coffee from our neighbor Mexico. We are proud to present a superior coffee that comes from the high mountains in the southernmost province of Mexico.
Welcome to July and the chance to do something different with your coffee of the month.
After Brazil, which country produces the most coffee in the world? Read more
Boquete is nowhere near the Panama Canal: it’s high in the mountains, not too far from Costa Rica. It need not be: it’s a fine destination for hanging bridge lovers; coffee drinkers; foodies; volcano visitors; music, arts, and crafts enthusiasts; and those looking for a good place to retire. Boquete hosts the 50-year-old Coffee and Flower Festival (January) and a jazz and blues festival. Read more
Living high up in the Andes jungle region at 3,000 – 3,500 feet above sea level, 296 ranchers – 39 of whom are women – grow premium beans for the coffee and cocoa worlds.
