The Alvarados built their farms gradually, piece by piece, in an area that wasn't traditionally seen as good coffee-growing land. What started as John Alvarado's effort has become a passion passed down through the family.
Brunca hasn't always had a strong reputation for quality coffee. But over the past decade, sub-regions like Chirripó, along with micro mills like the Alvarados', have changed that. The region's coffees are now recognized for their quality, backed by producers who bring real dedication and passion to the work.
That same dedication drives the family's approach: farming in harmony with the environment while delivering something distinct to the consumer. The Alvarados built their farms gradually, piece by piece, in an area that wasn't traditionally seen as good coffee-growing land. What started as John Alvarado's effort has become a passion passed down through the family.
Today, the mill is run by John Alvarado and Katthya Fonseca, along with their children — Jhonny, Marylin, Eva, Abraham, and Jhoel. Jhonny and Marylin lead the project alongside their father, handling administration and pushing for new ideas to improve quality each harvest. Their siblings Eva and Abraham manage quality control on the farm and during processing. Together, this next generation has become central to Corazón de Jesús — bringing fresh energy and a clear vision for where the mill is headed.
The mill is also part of the Bandera Azul program, which recognizes producers committed to sustainable practices — particularly around environmental conservation and water management.
Those are things we value too, so Sweet Bloom has purchased coffee from the Alvarado family for six seasons now, and that relationship has grown beyond a simple buying arrangement. Jhonny even traveled to visit us for a Meet the Producer event, giving our team and customers a chance to hear directly from him about the farm, the family, and the work behind every harvest.
