Location: Perez Zeledon, San Jose, Costa Rica
Nestled in the lush landscapes of Cajón, Pérez Zeledón, Costa Rica, Finca Montebox is a 15-hectare family-owned coffee estate that embodies nearly two centuries of dedication to coffee cultivation. This historic farm, rooted in the legacy of the Montealegre family, combines tradition, innovation, and sustainability to produce exceptional coffee while preserving the natural environment.
The Montealegre family’s coffee journey began in the 1830s with Don Mariano Montealegre Bustamante, a visionary pioneer known as “The Coffee King” for his role in establishing coffee as a cornerstone of Costa Rica’s economy. Nearly 200 years later, the family continues this legacy through Finca Montebox, a farm that integrates sustainable practices with cutting-edge coffee production.
Property Details:
Finca Montebox spans approximately 15 hectares and is divided into distinct areas that support diverse agricultural and conservation efforts:
1. Coffee Plantation and Micro-Mill:
- The heart of the estate is its organic coffee plantation, certified after a rigorous three-year transition. The farm’s elevation of 750 meters above sea level, combined with its fertile soil and mild climate, creates ideal conditions for growing high-quality coffee with distinct flavors.
- The Montebox Micro-Mill, built in 2008, is a state-of-the-art processing facility capable of handling 400 bushels of coffee, with the potential to expand to 1,200 bushels. Equipped with a sun-drying patio and a kiln, the mill ensures premium processing for specialty coffee markets.
2. Biodiversity and Conservation:
- Over the past six years, the farm has undergone natural regeneration, allowing the soil to recover and biodiversity to flourish. Today, Finca Montebox is a thriving ecosystem teeming with diverse flora and fauna.
- A natural river flows through the property, providing essential water resources for irrigation and supporting the farm’s ecological balance.
3. Strategic Location:
- Situated along the main road, the farm offers easy access, reducing transportation costs and enhancing logistical efficiency. Its flat terrain and gentle slopes make it ideal for manual crop management, lowering labor costs and promoting sustainable practices.
- The estate’s proximity to the luxurious Hotel AltaGracia, a premier Costa Rican resort, positions it as a prime destination for coffee tours and agro-tourism experiences.
Sustainability and Growth Potential:
Finca Montebox is a model of sustainable agriculture, with its organic certification and regenerative practices meeting the growing demand for eco-friendly products. The farm’s fertile soil and rich biodiversity make it ideal for agroforestry, syntropic agriculture, and specialty coffee micro-lots. Additionally, the Montebox Micro-Mill can process coffee from neighboring producers, fostering community collaboration and creating additional revenue streams.
Financial projections indicate strong growth potential over the next 5-10 years, driven by the sale of green coffee and specialty micro-lots. Finca Montebox is not just a coffee farm; it is a holistic agricultural project that honors the Montealegre family’s legacy while shaping the future of sustainable coffee production in Costa Rica.
For those seeking to invest in a farm that combines history, innovation, and environmental stewardship, Finca Montebox offers a unique and rewarding opportunity.
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