It's no surprise if you've heard great things about Dominican coffee. Despite being one of the smaller producers and exporters of coffee, the country's beans are known for their rich and complex flavors, thanks to the high-altitude growing conditions. However, the country is often overlooked and doesn't receive the recognition it deserves for its exceptional coffee.

MEET THE FARMER: Ramirez Estate

The Ramirez Estate is a family-owned property with a remarkable commitment to environmental and social responsibility. They employ sustainable practices, including using fermented coffee cherries to create natural gas, which partially powers their operation.

Additionally, they are actively engaged in supporting the local community by donating books and computers to local schools, and constructing and funding a new school in a more rural area. This effort has helped to reduce the commute time for young children, who previously had to walk over 15 km each way to attend classes.

The Ramirez family is also dedicated to helping ensure that Haitian immigrants receive fair wages by helping them obtain legal residence in the Dominican Republic. They employ over 400 workers who live and work on the property and make nearly 300% higher wages than Fair Trade Standard.

The Ramirez Estate has  earned recognition for their organic certification and exceptional care for the environment, as well as their high cupping scores. Their comprehensive approach to sustainability and social responsibility has made them a leader in their industry.