Insights from Lee Gonzales of La Finca Coffee

Have you ever wondered where your morning coffee truly originates? In the latest episode of our podcast, "From Cherry to Cup: Unearthing Coffee's Journey with Lee Gonzales of La Finca Coffee," we take you on an intriguing exploration of the origins and detailed processes behind your favorite brew. Hosted by Sofia Yvette, this episode features Lee Gonzales, the passionate owner and CEO of La Finca Coffee & Bakery. He shares his extensive knowledge and experience, offering listeners an immersive dive into the world of coffee.

Surprisingly, coffee is actually a fruit that resembles a cherry. This intriguing fact sets the stage for a deep examination of how coffee transitions from this cherry-like fruit into the aromatic beans that kickstart our mornings. Gonzales explains that the coffee "cherry" houses seeds—the coffee beans we cherish. These seeds are enveloped in pulp, akin to the pit of a cherry, and undergo a remarkable transformation before they reach our cups.

Our journey begins in the coffee belt, a geographical region stretching from the Tropic of Capricorn to the Tropic of Cancer. This area provides the ideal climate for cultivating coffee. Gonzales emphasizes that coffee is primarily grown in countries within these latitudes, highlighting how geographical conditions significantly affect the quality and characteristics of the coffee produced.

The harvesting process is both meticulous and labor-intensive. Coffee cherries must be picked at just the right moment, typically when they turn a rich red color, although some varietals can be yellow. Once harvested, the cherries are subjected to one of three primary drying methods: natural, washed, or honey. Each method distinctly influences the coffee's flavor profile. Natural drying retains the pulp on the cherries, leading to vibrant, fruit-forward flavors. Washed coffee is depulped before drying, resulting in more subtle fruit notes, while the honey process retains some mucilage on the beans, imparting a unique flavor.

The drying techniques also vary. Some beans are sun-dried on cement patios, while others are placed on raised African beds to improve air circulation. Regardless of the method, drying is crucial to prevent mold and ensure the beans develop the desired flavors. Gonzales notes that the drying method can significantly impact taste, with natural drying often producing livelier, fruitier coffees.

Once dried, the beans head to the dry mill for processing, where they are sorted by quality, size, and defects before being bagged for shipment. The journey from the coffee belt to your cup involves multiple stages, including transport in burlap bags lined with grain pro liners to maintain freshness. These bags may take 30 to 60 days to reach destinations like the United States.

Upon arrival, the beans are stored in warehouses and then sent to roasters. At La Finca Coffee, the roasting process transforms the green beans into the rich, aromatic beans we recognize. Gonzales explains that roasting is a critical step that requires precision and expertise to highlight the best flavors in the coffee. The roasted beans then reach baristas, who play an essential role in crafting the final brew.

The episode also highlights the human element behind coffee production. Gonzales shares personal stories from his travels to coffee farms, where he witnessed the dedication of farmers. He recounts carrying a 50-pound bag of coffee cherries down a mountain in Chiapas, Mexico, reflecting on the daily efforts of many farmers, particularly women. This experience inspired him to share not only high-quality coffee but also the stories of the people behind it.

Gonzales emphasizes serving coffee with care and respect for the labor involved in its production. He believes understanding the journey from cherry to cup enhances appreciation for each sip. The episode underscores the interconnectedness of the global coffee community, from farmers to roasters to baristas and ultimately to consumers.

In conclusion, "From Cherry to Cup: Unearthing Coffee's Journey with Lee Gonzales of La Finca Coffee" offers a captivating look at the coffee world. Gonzales's passion and expertise shine as he guides listeners through the coffee belt, meticulous harvesting, drying, and transformative roasting processes. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or just enjoy a good cup of joe, this episode is a treasure trove of insights into what makes your brew special. Join us to enrich your coffee knowledge through this engaging conversation!

To learn more about La Finca Coffee & Bakery go to:
https://lafincacoffeebakery.com/

La Finca Coffee & Bakery
7511 Main Street, #150
Frisco, Texas 75034
972.486.9600

2281 E. University Dr #10
Prosper, Texas 75078
972.503.9400