Nicaragua La Explosión Finca Herrera

Rony is a third-generation coffee farmer and the first in his family to focus exclusively on specialty coffee. He has been involved in the family farm since the age of 10 and took over in 2013 when it was still known as Finca Fila Quemada—a name derived from an incident when the farm burned down for unknown reasons.

In 2015 and 2016, This Side Up purchased coffee from Rony, but financial challenges caused by the then-exporting partner forced a pause in operations and the temporary discontinuation of This Side Up’s work in Nicaragua. Despite losing almost everything, Rony has spent the past three years steadily restoring his farm and making progress. With the support of the new group Madroño, This Side Up has been able to renew its partnership with Rony, bringing his coffee back to Europe. This trade relationship plays a vital role in aiding his recovery and supporting his vision for the future.

Rony’s farm is located in an area called La Explosión, 17 kilometers north of the town of San Fernando, at altitudes ranging from 1,450 to 1,630 meters above sea level. The primary varieties grown are red and yellow Catuai, and this year, Rony plans to introduce pink Bourbon and Geisha to diversify his offerings.

Producing specialty coffee brings Rony satisfaction and joy, especially as he fosters direct relationships with roasters who value his work. Looking ahead, he remains committed to fully restoring his farm and building a sustainable future through direct trade partnerships.