From Cauca with Care: The Story Behind Our Colombia Gran Galope Coffee Beans
Why traceability matters—and how this Colombian origin keeps us inspired.
At Ratio Roast, we believe every cup should tell a story. Not just about tasting notes or roast levels—but about people, land, and process. That’s why we’re proud to share the origin of one of our favorite components: Gran Galope, sourced from the Cauca region of Colombia.
Behind the bold aroma and balanced sweetness of this coffee is something bigger: a collective effort to uplift smallholder farmers, preserve quality, and champion traceability in every lot we roast.
Where It Begins: Cauca, Colombia
Tucked between the western and central Andes, Cauca is one of Colombia’s most vibrant coffee-growing regions. High elevation, volcanic soil, and microclimates shaped by mountain winds and rainforest moisture create ideal growing conditions for complex, clean, and sweet coffees.
Coffees from Cauca often shine with notes of caramelized sugar, red fruit, and citrus acidity—and Gran Galope is no exception.
But what makes this coffee truly special isn't just the altitude. It’s the structure behind the sourcing—and the people who grow it.
What Is "Gran Galope"?
“Gran Galope” (Spanish for “Great Gallop”) is more than just a name. It’s a quality tier and sourcing initiative by our importing partner, built to ensure economic sustainability for Colombia’s smallholder producers.
Here’s what makes Gran Galope different:
Small Farms, Big Impact
Gran Galope lots are made up of coffees from smallholder farmers, most of whom own less than five acres of land. These producers often don't have enough volume to export individually—but by pooling top lots together, they gain access to the specialty market and higher premiums.
Elevated Quality, Traceable Lots
Only coffees that meet strict cupping and elevation requirements (above 1,200 MASL) are selected. This ensures not just good coffee—but exceptional coffee, every time.
Better Prices, Fairer Systems
Through Gran Galope, farmers are paid above the base commodity price—bridging the gap between high-end microlots and the volatility of the C-market.
Why We Choose Gran Galope for Ratio Roast
When we first cupped Gran Galope (Cauca), it felt like everything we love in a Colombian coffee—round body, vibrant acidity, and subtle brown sugar sweetness. But more than that, we felt aligned with its ethos:
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Transparency at origin
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Empowering small producers
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Reliable, high-quality flavor at scale
By sourcing from this program, we’re able to consistently deliver coffees that not only taste incredible but also do right by the people who grow them.
What You'll Taste
In our Gran Galope–based blends, such as select versions of The First Light or future single origin features, you might notice:
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Caramelized sweetness
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Soft red fruit (like plum or cherry)
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Citrus acidity (think orange peel or Meyer lemon)
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Silky, medium body
Whether brewed as espresso, pour over, or cold brew, this coffee is a versatile workhorse—one that holds complexity without overwhelming the cup.
Your Cup Makes a Difference
When you brew Ratio Roast, you're brewing coffee that’s been thoughtfully sourced, transparently roasted, and intentionally crafted. The farmers in Cauca may not see your morning ritual—but they feel its ripple.
And we want you to feel connected, too—to know that this coffee doesn’t just come from a warehouse. It comes from a hillside in Cauca, picked by hand, and brought to life with care.
Shop the Origin
Want to try it? Keep an eye on our rotating blends and upcoming single origin releases featuring Gran Galope. We’ll let the cup speak for itself.