La Pelota

La Pelota is located in the department of San Agustín, in southern Huila, where the Central and Eastern Andes Mountains converge. The farm, sitting at 1900 masl, received its name from the geometrical shape of the land, ‘the ball’. Maria Rovira Muñoz has been farming on this tiny 2 hectare plot for over 20 years, with true dedication and passion. Her hard work has led her from an almost barren farm to a number 6 finish in the Cup of Excellence in 2022. 

She farmed sugar cane at La Pelota for many years, and began slowly replacing with coffee, searching for ways to increase her quality and standing in the market. 10 years ago she bargained for seeds at a local market, which turned out to be an early example of the Pink Bourbon varietal; she has since participated in seed distribution and technical training programmes, also receiving seeds of Geisha and Caturra.

Maria Rovira is an example for female producers in the region; after her performance in CoE, many come to her for advice about varietals, processing and quality control.