The Pacas family has been cultivating coffee at Finca El Retiro for five generations, dating back to 1927. The farm is situated in the fertile Apeneca Ilamatepec mountains, with nutrient-rich volcanic soil and a biodiverse jungle canopy. Under the watchful eye of farm manager Eduardo Figueroa, El Retiro consistently yields exceptional coffees, including the renowned Bernardina variety. Maria and Alfredo are acutely aware of the privileged position that generations of hard work have now afforded them and take this responsibility seriously. Since 2012, they have developed and implemented a social responsibility strategy, ensuring their workers are provided with health and wellness programs, in addition to wages far exceeding the average in the agricultural sector. Despite these programs, the Pacas family find themselves in a similar position to many producers in El Salvador, where a labor shortage is driving their cost of production higher and higher. We’re committed to our relationship with Maria, Alfredo, and the whole Pacas family, and will continue to find new and creative ways to work together.