Sonora Estate
Behind all specialty coffees are special producers, and because of these producers’ exceptional work, we have been able to grow together throughout the years. For our 20th Anniversary, we’re highlighting our longtime partnership with Sonora Estate, owned by father and son team Alberto and Diego Guardia.
What is the history of Sonora Estate?
Hacienda Sonora has been in our family for over a century, originally established as a sugarcane farm before transitioning to coffee in the 1970s. Nestled at the foot of the majestic Poás Volcano, the estate spans over 100 hectares of fertile land, with 65 hectares dedicated to coffee cultivation and the remainder preserved as native forest. Today, Sonora is proudly run as a father-and-son operation, blending generational wisdom with forward-thinking innovation. Since 1999, we’ve been pioneers in Costa Rica’s specialty coffee movement—among the first to experiment with alternative milling and processing methods that highlight the unique character of each varietal. Our journey into specialty coffee has always been rooted in a deep commitment to quality, sustainability, and creativity—values that continue to guide everything we do.
What are you most proud of in regards to Sonora Estate?
We’re proudest of our ability to combine tradition with innovation. Sonora is known for its wide range of exotic varietals and experimental processing methods, all grown under shade and powered by 100% renewable energy from our own hydroelectric plant. We’ve built a reputation for producing clean, complex, and vibrant coffees while maintaining a deep respect for the environment and the people who work with us.
What are the biggest challenges for coffee producers in Costa Rica?
Climate change is a growing concern—unpredictable weather patterns affect flowering, harvest timing, and disease pressure. Rising production costs and labor shortages also pose challenges, especially for farms committed to sustainable and ethical practices. Navigating international markets is another ongoing effort, particularly as consumer expectations evolve.
What are your plans for Sonora Estate over the next few years?
We’re focused on deepening our sustainability efforts, expanding our reforestation projects, and continuing to innovate with new varietals and processing techniques. We also aim to strengthen direct relationships with roasters and customers around the world, sharing more of our story and the unique character of our coffees. Education and community development are also key pillars—we want Sonora to be a place of growth for everyone involved.
What would you like Temple customers to know about your coffee and your farm?
Every cup of Sonora coffee carries the essence of our land, our people, and our passion. We grow our coffee with care, using environmentally responsible methods and prioritizing quality at every step. When you drink Sonora, you’re not just enjoying a delicious coffee—you’re supporting a farm that values biodiversity, fair labor, and long-term sustainability. We’re honored to share our coffees with Temple and its customers, and we hope you feel the connection to Costa Rica in every sip.
We’re especially proud of our long-standing relationship with Temple Coffee, which is our oldest and most enduring partnership. Temple has played a fundamental role in Hacienda Sonora’s growth and visibility, and their continued support has helped us push boundaries and share our coffees with a wider audience that truly values craftsmanship and transparency.
Pura vida!
Diego Guardia
