MILAN, Italy – Dalla Corte, leading innovator in the espresso machine industry, announces the triumphant conclusion of DC Campus Costa Rica — an extraordinary educational journey that delved deep into the heart of Costa Rican coffee culture. From February 18th, esteemed Dalla Corte distributors and partners from across the globe embarked on a week-long transformative exploration, uncovering the intricate layers of the coffee supply chain.
DC Campus is more than just an educational experience—it’s a profound journey that brings people closer to coffee, allowing them to explore and appreciate the entire journey behind the cup we all love. By inviting their valued partners to join them in Costa Rica, Dalla Corte aimed to create synergies and connections on a deeper level, while showcasing DC’s unwavering commitment to coffee as a raw material and respect for ethical and sustainable practices.
The DC Campus Costa Rica
The expedition with Viaje con Cafè began with a captivating visit to Coopro Naranjo in the esteemed coffee-producing area of the West Valley.
Led by Ing. Mario Arroyo Uder, the general manager of Coopro Naranjo, participants gained invaluable insights into the cooperative’s operations and its dedication to sustainability and traceability.
The day continued with a tour of Finca Banyai, where the father-and-son team of Sándor Tóth and Márk Tóth shared their expertise in coffee planting and cultivation.
In the Cartago Province, participants marveled at CATIE’s botanical collections of coffee—a testament to the institution’s decades-long commitment to coffee research and innovation. The journey continued with a visit to CoopeTarrazú, the largest coffee cooperative in Costa Rica, where participants witnessed firsthand the co-op’s efforts to improve sustainability practices and social well-being.
Day four brought the group to Las Margaritas, where they experienced the timeless tradition of coffee harvesting under the guidance of Emmanuel Solis. Witnessing the meticulous process of picking, pulping, and processing coffee cherries sparked a profound appreciation for the craftsmanship inherent in coffee cultivation.
In Santa Maria de Dota, participants explored Coopedota—one of Costa Rica’s finest cooperatives—and gained insights into certifications and sustainable practices, including carbon-neutral coffee production. The journey continued with visits to La Pira and Don Cayito farms, where participants sampled exquisite coffees and learned about innovative processing methods.
At Hacienda San Isidro Labrador, participants gained insights into the prestigious Cup of Excellence competition and ignited their creativity with a thrilling latte art competition—a highlight of the expedition that left everyone buzzing with excitement.
The expedition concluded with a visit to Coricafe.s.a, where participants gained firsthand insight into the coffee export process, and a leisurely walking tour through the vibrant streets of San Jose, immersing themselves in the rich tapestry of coffee history and local specialty coffee culture.
Each cup served as a window into Costa Rica’s coffee heritage, a testament to the passion and craftsmanship that defines this beloved beverage.
DC Campus Costa Rica was not just an educational journey; it was a celebration of coffee culture and a testament to the enduring passion that unites coffee enthusiasts around the world.
While looking forward to the next DC Campus, here as some of the testaments from DC partners and other participants of this DC Campus – Costa Rica:
Matthias Adriaens, Belgium – “I would like to thank all of you for this amazing week, we learned a lot, met amazing people and had a blast! Special thanks to Dalla Corte and Viaje con Cafe for the organization.“
Federica Trombetta, Italy – “Only now, after being born into the world of coffee, can I understand the complexity of this raw material! A noble matter, full of nuances and people, hands that work and love it. All the way to Turin in our roastery and being processed and shipped all over the world. How many variables there can be to get to that cup we drink listlessly, only now I can really perceive them! I have a new outlook toward the world of coffee and can’t wait to share it with everyone! Thank you Dalla Corte for helping baristas around the world process the most precious bean in existence! I return with a heart full of notions, people, smiles and laughter.”
J. Marie Carlan, United States – “After seeing how difficult it is to grow, pick, process, and export coffee from producing countries, I can’t look at my cup of coffee the same way. Seeing the hard work of the people behind the bag has been an eye-opening experience. I joked with my fellow travelers about how I would respond the next time someone tells me coffee is too expensive: “If you think it’s cheap and easy, try growing it yourself.“ But in reality, I can’t be so glib. I’m happy to see the specialty industry in Costa Rica growing, and I hope to do my part in helping to ensure its future.”
Alexandros Sanozidis, Greece – “Magical experience unique and above all informative in relation to what we love and have made it and coffee work! I would like to thank you one by one personally because we made a beautiful cooperation without any problems as well as all the Dalla Corte staff their partners and above all the wonderful organizers -leaders , drivers , photographers and all the participants in this unique journey! Also not to forget the hospitality from the cultivators, experts and the people who embraced us and put us in their home.”
George Pairamoglou, Greece – “Dear fellow travelers of ‘Dc Campus’, the journey of knowledge and rich experiences provided by Dalla Corte will remain indelible to me. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Dalla Corte and all of you for what we shared on this unique journey. I hope we will meet again soon to share similar experiences. Pura Vida.”
