Origin

Dipilto Highlands, Nueva Segovia, Nicaragua

Nueva Segovia, in northern Nicaragua along the Honduran border, boasts a rich coffee history dating back to the mid-19th century. Arabica trees were introduced in the 1850s by settlers and traders from Honduras and El Salvador, recognizing the region's potential with its high-elevation terrain, ranging from 1,200 to 1,700 metres. The area's mountainous topography, volcanic soil, and cool microclimates create ideal conditions for producing dense, complex coffee.

By the early 20th century, Nueva Segovia emerged as a crucial coffee-growing region, significantly contributing to Nicaragua’s agricultural economy. Many farms, particularly around Dipilto and Mozonte, began as small family holdings, passed down through generations. These early farmers practiced sustainability long before it was certified, maintaining soil fertility through organic matter and native vegetation.

Despite disruptions from political instability and civil conflict in the 1970s and 1980s, Nueva Segovia's producers remained resilient. The 1990s brought peace and economic reform, revitalizing the region through investment and cooperative development. Families like the Peraltas led this resurgence, introducing improved varieties such as Caturra, Pacamara, and Maracaturra, and pioneering post-harvest innovations. Nueva Segovia gained international acclaim in the early 2000s with the Cup of Excellence competition, where its coffees consistently excelled. Today, Nueva Segovia, especially the Dipilto Highlands, is the heart of Nicaraguan specialty coffee, combining tradition, innovation, and sustainability.