La Shapa – Typica

Finca La Shapa is located in La Unión, Sallique, in the Jaén province of Cajamarca, Peru, at elevations reaching up to 2450 metres above sea level. This is our first time working with Elzer Garcia Ticlahuanca, and we are excited to begin this relationship and follow the progression of his work.

Elzer began his journey in coffee in 2015, starting with just 100 plants as a trial. Seeing how well they adapted to the environment, he gradually expanded the farm to around 7,000 trees across nearly two hectares. His approach remains hands on and grounded, with a focus on soil health through organic fertilisation and the use of shade trees such as pajuro to create a balanced growing environment.

Farming at this altitude brings both challenge and clarity. Slow cherry maturation allows for the development of refined acidity and structure, qualities that have come to define some of the most compelling coffees from northern Peru.

We are very pleased to be working with Elzer for the first time, and look forward to continuing to share his coffees as his project evolves.

This lot is an anaerobic washed Typica, shaped by extended fermentation and careful handling throughout. While labelled here as Typica, coffees from this region often reflect a local expression of traditional varieties, where altitude and environment play as much of a role as genetics in defining the cup.

We first came across this coffee on the cupping table as a particularly refined and lifted expression from northern Peru. It stood out for its clarity and delicacy, with a profile that felt composed, precise and quietly expressive.

Harvesting is carried out selectively by hand, ensuring only fully ripe cherries are processed. Following pulping, the coffee undergoes an extended dry fermentation in sealed tanks for up to 48 hours, building sweetness, structure and a gentle layer of complexity without losing clarity.

The coffee is then washed and dried on patios in thin, even layers. Constant turning and careful protection from moisture ensure a slow, stable drying phase, preserving both the physical integrity of the beans and the precision of the cup.

In the cup, expect whitecurrant, red plum and lime blossom. Sweet and vibrant, with a light body and soft malic acidity, it finishes clean, composed and quietly elegant.

This is a poised and elegant expression of high altitude Peruvian Typica, shaped by careful processing and a clear sense of intention at every stage.