Johana & Joyce Calderón – Granitos de Altura del Ortiz, Costa Rica

In the heart of Santa María de Dota, a picturesque town in Costa Rica’s famed Tarrazú region, lies Micro-Beneficio Granitos de Altura del Ortiz – a family-run micromill producing some of the most elegant and expressive coffees in Central America. Managed by sisters Johana and Joyce Calderón, this small but mighty operation is a shining example of Costa Rica’s micromill revolution.

A Family-Run Micromill in the Mountains of Tarrazú

The Tarrazú region, located in the San José province, is one of the most celebrated coffee-growing areas in the world. Known for its high altitudes, volcanic soils, and cool mountain climate, Tarrazú coffees are prized for their bright acidity, floral aromatics, and clean, sweet profiles.

Granitos de Altura del Ortiz sits at elevations between 1,800 and 2,000 metres above sea level, where the slower cherry maturation contributes to the complexity and clarity of the cup. The name “Granitos de Altura” translates to “High Altitude Little Beans” – a nod to both the terroir and the meticulous care that defines their approach.

Women in Coffee: Johana & Joyce Calderón

For nearly a decade, Johana Calderón led the mill with vision and dedication. Recently, she stepped back to welcome a new baby, passing the leadership to her younger sister Joyce, who has now taken the reins with equal passion and precision.

Joyce is deeply committed to quality over quantity. Rather than expanding production, she focuses on refining every step of the process – from cherry selection to drying – to ensure each lot meets their exacting standards. Her philosophy is rooted in connection: with the land, with the coffee, and with the people who come to visit and share in the experience.

“When the harvest is in full swing, the days are long and the workloads are heavy,” Joyce says. “But we’re energised by people visiting, sharing their time, and connecting over coffee.”

A Commitment to Sustainability and Community

Like many Costa Rican micromills, Granitos de Altura is part of a broader movement toward traceability, sustainability, and producer empowerment. By managing their own processing and working directly with buyers, the Calderón family ensures that more value stays in the community.

Their work also reflects a growing trend of women-led coffee businesses in Latin America – a shift that’s bringing fresh perspectives and renewed focus on quality and transparency.

Why We’re Proud to Work with Granitos de Altura

We’re honoured to source coffee from Joyce and Johana Calderón. Their dedication to quality, their respect for tradition, and their passion for people all shine through in every cup. Granitos de Altura del Ortiz is a micromill with heart – and we’re proud to share their story and their coffee with you.