In 1990, Colombia opened its doors to the international economy. This was a hard blow for local producers all over the country, because foreign imports were usually cheaper. This situation was also very difficult for Don Gabriel Castaño - until he discovered the then not very well-known coffee variety Pink Bourbon. Fascinated by the colour of the seeds, he planted this variety on his finca La Granda, in the department of Huila, and discovered that the plant was very resistant to rust. From this discovery, he decided to replant completely: with success! His plantation and the quality of his coffee brought him and his family a secure economic income.
Gabriel and his wife Carmen have six children - four daughters and two sons - five of whom have followed in their parents' footsteps and become coffee producers themselves. Although Gabriel is getting on in years and can no longer drink coffee for health reasons, he says he wouldn't trade his life with anyone. He has planted 8,000 trees in his lifetime and has become known in his community for introducing Variety Pink Bourbon to his colleagues.
