HATCH - Finca Soledad | Ecuador - Wave Natural - Sydra

Hatch Coffee Roasters is located in Markham, Ontario, Canada

From HATCH

The story of Finca Soledad is intrinsically tied to its founder, Pepe Jijon. Once a renowned mountaineer who famously solo-climbed the "Seven Summits," Pepe's journey took an unexpected turn after a life-altering accident. Seeking solitude and a new purpose, he purchased the land that would become Finca Soledad with the initial intention of simply planting trees. He didn't even drink coffee at the time. What began as an escape from the world evolved into a profound mission of environmental conservation and coffee excellence. Pepe's love for the land and his deep respect for nature's "silent language" guide his every decision, from sustainable farming practices to innovative processing techniques. His dedication has transformed the farm into a globally recognized producer of some of the world's most sought-after coffees.

Located in the stunning Intag Valley of Ecuador's Imbabura province, Finca Soledad is a testament to the power of nature and a unique philosophy of farming. Spanning 120 hectares, the farm is a biodiverse paradise, yet only a small portion—about four to five hectares—is dedicated to coffee cultivation. The remaining land is left as a preserved forest, a conscious decision by its founder to foster a rich, balanced ecosystem. This high-altitude "cloud coffee farm," sitting at 1,515 meters above sea level, benefits from a unique microclimate and mineral-rich soil. The farm's biodynamic approach, where coffee trees grow in harmony with endemic flora and fauna, is central to its identity, creating a nurturing environment that allows each coffee cherry to develop a complex and vibrant flavor profile

The sydra variety is one of coffee's most intriguing treasures due to its unconfirmed genetics, linked to wild Ethiopian heirlooms. It consistently delivers a remarkably sweet and elegant cup, balancing complex floral aromatics with a bright, juicy acidity that is truly captivating.

The true artistry of this coffee is revealed in Pepe's bespoke 'Wave Nature' process. The journey begins with whole coffee cherries undergoing a meticulous 6-day fermentation in temperature-controlled tanks inside a cold room. This slow stage is crucial for developing deep fruit notes and aromatic complexity. Following this, the cherries are briefly exposed to direct sun for just two hours—a precise step to halt fermentation and stabilize the cherry. The final, and longest, stage involves moving the coffee onto trays in a dark room, where it dries slowly and evenly over 24 to 32 days. This painstaking method protects the delicate seed, resulting in a cup of stunning clarity, vibrancy, and layered sweetness.