ECUADOR - MELIPONAS AA

West Cork Coffee - "Origin: ECUADOR - MELIPONAS AA Region: PUYANGO Variety: Typica, Caturra And Sarchimor Altitude: 900 - 1300 masl Process: Washed In the cup; " Chocolate, Caramel & Blackcurrant,” Puyango is recognised for its specialty coffee production. One of the defining features of coffee farms in this region is their integrated management approach. The use of chemical fertilizers is minimal, as coffee growers typically rely on organic compost made from pruning and pulping byproducts, which are rich in organic material. A key aspect of coffee producers in this area—and the inspiration behind the brand name “Meliponas”—is honey production. Farmers raise meliponas, a type of stingless bee that is easy to manage, allowing beehives to be kept among coffee plants and near their homes. These producers have formed an association, also named Meliponas, dedicated to honey commercialization, providing an additional source of income. In fact, the canton of Puyango declared melipona bees National Heritage in September 2019. These bees feed on coffee flowers and play a crucial role in pollinating both coffee and fruit trees on the farms."