A Partnership Rooted in Excellence

While our formal buying relationship with Melky began only a few years ago, our admiration for his coffee goes back much further. In 2018, our coffee buyer, Enrique Hernandez, first tasted Melky's varietals and was immediately struck by their exceptional quality. Since then, Melky's coffees have consistently stood out, earning top honors in Colombia's La Mejor Taza de Mi Nariño competition.

In 2023, we had the privilege of purchasing 800 pounds of Melky's award-winning Caturra at $5.50 per pound. The coffee was everything we hoped it would be—complex, vibrant, and a true reflection of the care Melky puts into his work. Just as important, though, was the relationship that began to grow. Melky is one of the most open-hearted and thoughtful producers we've met, someone who approaches both coffee and people with integrity, generosity, and genuine care.

By 2026, what started as a new buying relationship had become a long-term partnership. We welcomed Melky into our permanent collection and committed to purchasing the majority of the harvest from his farm, El Muro. That commitment provides greater stability for Melky and his family, allowing them to continue investing in the quality they're known for while supporting fair wages for the seasonal cherry pickers who make each harvest possible.

We're incredibly excited about what lies ahead. As we continue getting to know Melky, his farm, and the surrounding region, we also hope to better understand where we can make a meaningful impact beyond coffee. Together, we'll be exploring opportunities to support a community project that benefits the area where many of his workers and their families live. We believe the strongest partnerships extend beyond the harvest, and we're grateful to be building one together with Melky.