We were introduced to Rutas del Inca Cooperative in late 2022, and it didn’t take long for their coffees to stand out. Since then, Rutas has become our primary producing partner in Peru. Beginning with the 2024 harvest, we’ve been working with the cooperative through a direct trade relationship, made possible by our friend David Palazuelos at Algrano. In 2026, we had the opportunity to meet General Manager José Rubio in person. His vision for improving the livelihoods of farmer members, paired with a humble and deeply grounded approach to leadership, further strengthened our commitment to the partnership.
Rutas del Inca is based in the Cajamarca region of Northern Peru, where many of its member farms are situated at exceptionally high elevations. Some reach over 2,500 meters above sea level, or more than 8,000 feet in the foothills of the Andes. These conditions slow the maturation of the coffee cherry, allowing sugars to develop gradually and resulting in dense, high-quality seeds. In the cup, this often translates to clarity, structure, and a refined, layered sweetness.
The cooperative has grown significantly in recent years, expanding from just a few dozen members to over 300 producers. This growth reflects both the quality of the coffee and the tangible economic opportunities the organization provides to smallholder farmers in the region. A strong emphasis on organic farming practices and environmental stewardship is central to their work, aligning closely with our own sourcing values.
Rutas del Inca continues to represent everything we look for in a producing partner: consistency, transparency, and a shared commitment to doing things the right way.
