Romelia tells the story of Costa Rica's Palmichal rainforest, where cloudy microclimates and volcanic soils create coffees with signature bright acidity. Roasted by California's Barefoot Coffee Roasters, this washed single origin honors Doña Romelia, who sustained her family's coffee legacy in the Escazú Mountains with strength and perseverance. The result is a clean, approachable cup that balances brightness with creamy body—milk chocolate and caramel sweetness lifted by cherry-like acidity.
Tasting Notes
Expect milk chocolate richness in the base, layered with caramel sweetness and bright cherry notes that dance on the palate. The acidity is lively but refined—characteristic of Palmichal's famous terroir—while the body remains creamy and full. The finish is clean and lingering, with just enough sweetness to invite the next sip. This light/medium roast preserves the origin's clarity while developing enough body to stand up to milk.
Brew Methods
Romelia shines across the spectrum. As espresso, it delivers a balanced shot with syrupy body and bright fruit notes that cut through milk drinks beautifully—try it as a cappuccino or cortado. Pour over methods (V60, Chemex, Kalita) highlight the coffee's signature acidity and clean finish, revealing layers of chocolate and stone fruit. French press amplifies the creamy body while maintaining brightness. Cold brew brings out the caramel sweetness with smooth, chocolatey results. Start with a medium grind and water just off boil (195-205°F) for hot brewing.
About the Coffee
Grown by smallholder farmers at 1200-1600 meters in the Palmichal and Santa Ana Mountains, this lot is processed at the Banko Chelchele washing station. European Preparation sorting ensures zero defects—the beans are hand-sorted after optical sorting for exceptional cleanliness. Barefoot Coffee Roasters sources this coffee through Interamerican Coffee, maintaining direct relationships that honor the legacy of farmers like Doña Romelia who transformed the region.
Clive's team can recommend grinder settings and equipment pairings to help you extract the full potential of this Costa Rican classic—just reach out.