PAPAYO NATURAL

Diofanor Ruiz – La Divisa

EXOTIC • SPECIALTY COFFEE

Score: 88.7

Cupping Notes: Peach • Green and Pink Jolly Rancher • Dark chocolate • Panela

Origin

Producer: Diofanor Ruiz
Farm: La Divisa
Region: Buenavista, Quindío, Colombia
Altitude: 1600–2000 m.a.s.l (avg. 1700–2000)
Rainfall: 1900–2200 mm
Soil: Volcanic ash
Temperature: 16–24°C

Papayo is a rare natural mutation that originated in San Adolfo, Huila. Named for its elongated bean shape — resembling a papaya — this variety stands out both physically and sensorially.

Though visually similar to Pacamara, Papayo expresses remarkable sweetness and floral elegance, often compared to Gesha. It has quickly become one of Colombia’s most exciting emerging varieties.

Variety Characteristics

Papayo is what Cofinet calls a “silver bullet” variety — combining agronomic strength with exceptional cup quality.

• Medium tree stature

• Compact and easy to harvest

• High yield

• Tolerant to leaf rust

• Drought resistant

• Susceptible to some coffee diseases

Its mucilage bursts with sweetness and floral aromatics — traits that remain vivid through fermentation and roasting.

Processing

Selective Harvest

Only fully ripe cherries are handpicked by Diofanor and his team. After harvesting, cherries are hand-sorted and floated to remove underripe or defective fruit.

Fermentation

45 hours aerobic fermentation
0 hours anaerobic

This controlled fermentation follows Cofinet protocol and enhances intrinsic sweetness while preserving clarity and floral complexity.

Drying

Cherries are dried in parabolic dryers for 10–15 days. They are spread in thin layers and turned regularly to ensure consistent airflow and prevent over-fermentation or mold.

Target moisture content: 9.5%–11%

Slow drying allows sugars and fruit character to permeate the bean, producing a cup that is fruit-forward, sweet, and full-bodied.

In the Cup

Papayo delivers:

• Intense candy like red fruit character

• Bright mandarin acidity

• Dark chocolate depth

• Panela sweetness

• Floral aromatics

• Structured, full body