Description
Costa Rica contains extraordinary flora and fauna and with its tropical climate and environmental conditions, cacao cultivation is possible in all parts of the country. However, the export of cacao only plays a small role in Costa Rica‘s economy, with the export of bananas, pineapples and coffee as well as products from the high-tech sector being far more important. The political context of the country as well as its success in the tourism sector also contributes to the preservation of biodiversity.
An important role both in the development and promotion of sustainable agriculture in Costa Rica is played by CATIE (Centro Agronómico Tropical de investigación y Eseñanza), the Centre for Tropical Agricultural Research and Higher Education in Turrialba. The aim of the institution is to combine both research and education and to ensure the transfer of knowledge and technology. Among other things, the research center is working on improving the virus resistance of cacao fruits, developing new quality profiles as well as a better adaptability of cacao to climate change. CATIE also works together with the IICA (Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture) in various Latin American countries on diverse projects whereby they aim to contribute to reducing rural poverty and establishing a sustainable use of natural resources.
«Finca la Amistad» is a 95-hectare family farm in the north of Costa Rica which was founded by Ernst and Ruth Brugger and is now run by their son Simon. In addition to the cultivation and processing of cacao, there is a lodge with overnight accommodation for tourists. The finca can count on long-standing and experienced employees who carry out all the necessary processing steps with the utmost care, from harvesting to fermentation in wooden crates to the drying stage. This yields an extraordinarily aromatic cacao.
Grand Cru Couverture made from fine cocoa from Costa Rica (Finca La Amistad). To coat pralines and specialties, fill hollow shells and create ganache, mousses and creams.
