Tarrazu, Costa Rica, is a region known for its high altitudes and superb quality coffee. La Playa means 'beach' in Spanish. What's the connection? While it may seem somewhat incongruous to conjure ocean vibes when talking about coffee production, in this case, 'La Playa' refers to a popular local hangout, on the shores of a nearby riverbank where families from the surrounding community spend their free time.
Cherry is selectively handpicked and delivered to Palmichal micro mill. Cherry is mechanically demucilaged to conserve water and lower the mill's environmental impact. Then, parchment is dried in mechanical dryers that are temperature regulated by careful electric control systems that ensure a slow, even dry.
Costa Rican coffees are more expensive but they have a much lower impact on the environment. A mill that's not properly regulated is really bad for the water. Wastewater is highly corrosive and will kill bigger animals and microorganisms all the way to the ocean and contribute to coral reef bleaching.
The water treatment system at Palmichal is cutting edge.
Water use is very regulated and one of Palmichals commitments is to clean the water properly and making sure their environmental impact is minimal.