La Pastora De Tarrazu, COSTA RICA

Tasting Notes: Red Grape, Caramel, Cashew

Origin: San Marcos de Tarrazu, Costa Rica

Variety: Catuia, Caturra

Process: Fully Washed

In 1960, 228 smallholder farmers in Los Santos de Tarrazú formed CoopeTarrazu to overcome challenges and access better markets. Today, it’s the largest cooperative in the region, with over 4,000 members.

To support its farmers, the co-op produces organic fertilizer to help restore soil health and reduce erosion. It also partners with others to test new coffee varieties with better yields, disease resistance, and cup quality. La Pastora reflects CoopeTarrazú’s commitment to sustainability and quality—and showcases what makes Costa Rican coffee so special.

Tarrazu is one of the most recognized coffee regions in Costa Rica. The Pirris River and the surrounding Talamanca mountains provide ideal growing conditions. Coffee is central to the local economy, and during harvest season, the population triples as seasonal workers arrive. For many, coffee is a primary source of income.