El Casino - Colombia [Pink Bourbon Washed]

Roaster: Sweven Coffee
Origin: Palestine, Huila, Colombia
Producer: José Elías Martínez – Finca El Casino
Varietal: Pink Bourbon
Process: Washed
Altitude: 1,650 masl
Profile: Starfruit · Elderflower · Pink Lemonade
Format: 200 g
Roast: Very Light (Omni)
Ideal for: Filter and Espresso

Why we like it: Its clarity and floral elegance, reminiscent of the best Ethiopian washed coffees but with the unmistakable identity of Huila, Colombia.

Who should buy it: Ideal for those seeking an extremely clean and floral washed coffee, with vibrant citrus acidity, versatile for both filter and espresso.

Finca El Casino is a ten-hectare family farm located in Palestina, Huila, at around 1,650 meters above sea level. At its heart is José Elías Martínez, whose relationship with coffee began at a young age, learning cultivation and fieldwork from his parents before developing his own knowledge in agronomy, harvesting, and post-harvest processing.

José's path has not been entirely conventional. After leaving the farm and spending time working as a bus driver in Colombia, his connection to coffee eventually brought him back home. He acquired the farm from his father and returned to production, gradually rebuilding El Casino with an increasing focus on quality and specialty coffee.

Today, about half of the farm is dedicated to coffee, with traditional varieties like Caturra and Castillo growing alongside more distinctive selections such as Pink Bourbon and Gesha. José has continued to invest in the farm's infrastructure and drying facilities, while deepening his understanding of fermentation and processing.

Pink Bourbon is one of Colombia's most fascinating varieties. Previously thought to be related to traditional Bourbon varieties, genetic analysis has instead linked it to Ethiopian landrace populations, which helps explain its intensely floral aromatics, elegant structure, and vivid fruit character.

At Finca El Casino, José cultivates Pink Bourbon at around 1,650 masl in the hills of Palestina, Huila. His approach allows the varietal character to remain at the core of the cup, using a traditional washed process to emphasize clarity, sweetness, and structure.

Perfectly ripe cherries are carefully harvested before pulping and fermenting, allowing the remaining mucilage to break down naturally. The coffee is then thoroughly washed before drying, creating a clean and transparent expression of the Pink Bourbon where varietal and terroir remain beautifully defined.

In the cup, expect notes of starfruit, elderflower, and pink lemonade. Exceptionally sweet and crisp, the profile is driven by a lively and appealing citric acidity, delicate orange blossom-like florals, and a refreshing fruit character that extends into a clean and beautiful finish.

Our journey in coffee began in 2010 — born from curiosity, driven by passion, and shaped by years of hands-on experience. Over the next decade, we explored the world of coffee with relentless dedication, seeking out exceptional origins, refining our craft, and forming relationships with producers who inspire us.

In 2019, that journey took a defining turn. We founded Sweven: a company rooted in precision, purpose, and a deep respect for the people behind every bean. From the farm to the cup, our focus is unwavering. Quality is not just our standard; it is our commitment.

We meticulously source and roast coffees that honor the skill and care of their producers, ensuring each cup reflects a story of craftsmanship, dedication, and place. But for us, coffee is more than flavor and process — it’s about connection. Shared experiences. Lasting moments.

At Sweven, we believe coffee has the power to bring people together and create something far greater than the drink itself: community, conversation, and a legacy built on excellence.

Jimmy & Aga Dimitrov
Founders