COLOMBIA FINCA MILAN CULTURING NITRO FERMENTATION

Finca Milán is a family-owned coffee farm in Pereira, Risaralda, Colombia. The farm is led by third-generation producer Julio César Madrid Tisnés. Julio focuses his attention on cultivating a wide range of varieties including Caturra, Castillo, Colombia, Bourbon Rosado, Bourbon Rojo, and Catiope and on innovation, investing in fermentation infrastructure and microbial research. This mix of disciplines has made Finca Milán a benchmark for experimental specialty coffee in Colombia. He collaborates closely with his daughter, a biologist, to study the impact of microorganisms on flavor development.

The Culturing Nitro process is a unique, mixed fermentation protocol designed to enhance sweetness and complexity. It begins with selective harvesting of ripe cherries which are floated to remove defects. Cherries are then placed in a bioreactor and inoculated with a starter culture (yeast and bacteria). The bioreactor is sealed and injected with nitrogen to facilitate the metabolic processes of the microorganisms. During this time, temperature, acidity, and Brix degrees are closely monitored against past data in order to time the end of the fermentation stage and initiate oxidation.

After leaving the bioreactor, the coffee is dried until reaching 10% - 12% moisture and the fruit is removed to separate the dried outer layers (skin and pulp) from the bean. This method produces a vibrant, fruit-forward cup.

The culturing nitro fermentation process is one of the most unique processing methods we've encountered. From the green coffee to the cup, tropical notes are all throughout this coffee.