Shop Rodin Especial in Los Angeles, CA

This year’s special offering from the Villatoro family is an anaerobic washed coffee dubbed “Rodin Especial.” After a meticulous cherry selection from the higher elevations of the farm at peak ripeness, Rodin fermented the coffee in GrainPro bags, contributing to its distinct boozy and tropical notes. The coffee was then pulped, fermented, and washed before being dried slowly on raised beds in a shaded warehouse—rather than on patios in full sun—adding complexity, cleanliness, and longevity to the cup. Each year, Unity visits the Villatoros to cup new lots, spend time together, and select standouts like this high-end microlot. We pay a premium for coffees like Rodin Especial for their exceptional quality and the extra care that goes into their production. The Villatoros also produce the washed coffee used in our Commissary Blend, a favorite that doesn’t go through this same intensive anaerobic preparation. When we visited last year, Rodin was halfway through building his new home—a reminder that real growth for producers happens when we pay more for exceptional coffee from the people we love working with. Castillo cherries to reach a rich purple hue. Alvarado has earned legendary status among smallholder farmers, having won the Best Cup competition multiple times. In November, we had the privilege of spending meaningful time with him during the Subastapor La Paz (Auction for Peace). When we first visited his farm in 2019, Alvarado showcased his mastery of both coffee cultivation and processing. The plants in the photo are used to produce Colombia’s famous white jute bags. During that visit, a sudden downpour highlighted the immense challenges farmers in the region face. What stands out most about Alvarado is his positive attitude and infectious smile. We love working with him not only for his commitment to excellence in coffee production but also for the balance of joy, warmth, and determination he brings to everything he does.