Ecuadorian Coffee: The Hidden Gem of Specialty Coffee

Ecuador may not yet be the most recognized name in specialty coffee, but with producers like Bernard Uhe leading the way, that is quickly changing. Through his farms—Finca La Noria and El Dorado—Uhe has cultivated some of the most exceptional coffees in the country, earning top placements in competitions like Cup of Excellence and Taza Dorada. His journey into coffee is a testament to the power of opportunity, passion, and perseverance.

From Real Estate to Coffee Excellence

Bernard Uhe’s path to coffee farming was unconventional. Initially drawn to Ecuador through travel, he established a real estate business before discovering the potential of Ecuadorian agriculture. Starting with cacao, Uhe soon pivoted to coffee due to its export potential and higher demand. His strategic approach to selecting the best land—combining ideal elevation, soil conditions, and water availability—set the foundation for his award-winning farms.

What Makes Ecuadorian Coffee Special?

Ecuador’s unique geography plays a crucial role in its coffee’s distinct quality. With farms situated at high elevations, consistent 12-hour sunlight exposure, and nutrient-rich soil, the country offers near-perfect conditions for specialty coffee cultivation. Uhe’s farms, ranging from 1,650 to 2,300 meters above sea level, produce exceptional Geisha, SL-28, and other high-quality varieties that thrive in this environment.

Unlike other regions where Geisha is notoriously difficult to cultivate, Uhe has found that it flourishes in Ecuador’s climate, producing complex and vibrant cup profiles. His meticulous approach to farm management, including the use of organic pesticides and nutrient-enhancing worm tea, further elevates the quality of his coffee.

The Road to Recognition

While Ecuadorian coffee is gaining momentum, it faces challenges such as higher labor costs and lower production volumes compared to neighboring countries. Despite these hurdles, Uhe’s farms have consistently placed in Ecuador’s top coffee competitions. His success at the Cup of Excellence, where his farms have secured first, second, and third-place finishes, proves that Ecuadorian coffee can compete with the best in the world.

Competitions and auctions have played a key role in increasing visibility. By entering high-profile events, Uhe has introduced his coffee to international buyers who might have otherwise overlooked Ecuador. Many of his long-term clients initially discovered his coffee through auctions, highlighting the importance of these platforms for emerging coffee origins.

A Vision for Ecuadorian Coffee

Uhe’s mission goes beyond his own farms—he wants to elevate Ecuador as a whole in the specialty coffee world. By promoting Ecuadorian coffee through competitions, direct relationships, and education, he aims to place the country among the top global producers. His farms will be featured in the upcoming Dubai Coffee Auction, offering buyers a chance to experience some of Ecuador’s finest coffees firsthand.

For coffee lovers and industry professionals alike, Ecuador represents a new frontier in specialty coffee. With dedicated producers like Bernard Uhe, the country’s potential is limitless. As more people discover the exquisite flavors of Ecuadorian coffee, its reputation will only continue to grow.

The Dubai Coffee Auction on March 13th

For those eager to experience high-end Ecuadorian specialty coffee, Finca La Noria and Finca El Dorado will be featured at the upcoming Dubai Coffee Auction on March 13th.

The Dubai Coffee Auction by DMCCJoin us for the Online Auction event happening on March 13th. Curated by M-Cultivo, this first-of-its-kind event will showcase the world’s top producers.

Register & Buy Sample Set

Join Bernard Uhe on The Cupping Table – a podcast by M-Cultivo.

Join us at The Cupping Table with Bernard Uhe, a standout producer from Ecuador, as he tells us how he and his family are helping put the country’s specialty coffee on the global map. With award-winning farms like Finca La Noria and El Dorado, Uhe shares his journey of crafting exceptional coffees and showcasing Ecuador’s unique potential. Learn about the passion and dedication driving the rise of Ecuadorian coffee in the specialty world.