El Parche Coffee Roasters: A Taste of Colombia in Melbourne

Introduction: Where Passion and Coffee Unite

El Parche Coffee Roasters is an independent specialty coffee roastery bringing the heart of Colombia to Melbourne’s thriving coffee scene. With roots deeply embedded in South and Central America, El Parche celebrates exceptional coffee, sustainability, and meaningful connections. Founded by Jorge, a Colombian living in Melbourne, the roastery combines tradition, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to fair trade practices.

From farm to cup, El Parche is more than just coffee—it’s a bridge connecting growers and drinkers through unique stories, sustainable practices, and unforgettable flavours. Let’s explore their journey, values, and the exceptional coffees featured in this month’s subscription box.

The Story Behind El Parche Coffee

A Colombian Heritage
El Parche’s founder, Jorge, grew up surrounded by Colombia’s rich coffee culture. For him, coffee isn’t just a business—it’s a way to stay connected to his roots. Jorge personally sources unique coffees from his homeland, ensuring that Australian coffee lovers can experience the vibrancy and complexity of South American beans.

A Commitment to Fair Trade
Being Colombian comes with both an advantage and a responsibility. El Parche ensures that farmers and producers are paid fairly, allowing them to support their families, invest in their communities, and continue producing exceptional coffee sustainably.

Sustainability: A Core Value

El Parche Coffee is committed to minimising its impact on the environment. From recyclable packaging—right down to the labels—to improving internal processes, every step is designed with sustainability in mind. By sourcing coffee responsibly and prioritising ethical trade, El Parche fosters a coffee supply chain that benefits everyone involved.

The Roasting Process: Where Science Meets Art

At El Parche, roasting is an art form guided by precision and passion. Each batch of coffee is carefully roasted to bring out its natural flavours, balancing sweetness, acidity, and body. Whether it’s a filter roast or an espresso blend, El Parche’s team ensures consistency and quality with every roast.

Featured Coffees in This Month’s Subscription Box

Volcano Espresso Blend: Sweet, Juicy, and Balanced

Flavour Notes: Rock melon, sugarcane, lemonade
Origins: Colombia (Volcano, Nariño) & Brazil (Chapada Diamantina)
Process: Washed & Natural
Suggested Methods: Espresso, stovetop, plunger

The Volcano Espresso Blend is a standout for espresso lovers seeking sweetness and balance. The beans from Nariño, Colombia, grow at some of the highest altitudes in the country, where cool temperatures allow for slow cherry maturation, creating a higher concentration of sugars. Combined with Brazilian beans from Fazenda Progresso’s volcanic soils, this blend offers a cup full of sweetness, vibrant acidity, and a sparkling body.

Whether paired with milk or enjoyed black, Volcano delivers a bright, juicy espresso with layers of rock melon, sugarcane, and lemonade—a perfect start to any day.

Jose Domingo - Finca La Independencia: A Complex Filter Delight

Flavour Notes: Stone fruit acidity, crisp sweetness
Origin: Inzá, Cauca, Colombia
Process: Washed
Altitude: 1,950 MASL
Suggested Methods: Pour-over, Aeropress, cold brew, plunger, stovetop

This washed filter roast comes from Jose Domingo Pechené, who grows coffee on his farm, La Independencia, in Colombia’s rugged Cauca region. At an impressive 1,950 MASL, the cool overnight temperatures and volcanic soil create dense, sweet beans bursting with flavour.

In the cup, expect bright notes of stone fruit paired with a crisp, clean sweetness. This coffee is perfect for filter enthusiasts who enjoy complex, delicate brews. Whether you’re using a V60, Aeropress, or cold brew method, Jose Domingo’s coffee promises a vibrant and memorable experience.

Why El Parche Coffee Stands Out

El Parche brings something unique to Melbourne’s specialty coffee scene. Here’s why they’re a favourite among coffee enthusiasts:

1. A Focus on South and Central America

El Parche’s roots in Colombia give them an edge when it comes to sourcing incredible coffees from regions like Nariño, Cauca, and Chapada Diamantina. Their focus on quality and sustainability ensures that each coffee tells a story.

2. Direct Relationships with Growers

Jorge’s personal connections with coffee farmers allow El Parche to share unique beans that might never have reached Australian shores. These relationships also ensure that growers receive fair compensation for their hard work.

3. Sustainability and Transparency

From eco-friendly packaging to thoughtful sourcing, El Parche is committed to reducing its environmental impact while maintaining transparency throughout the coffee supply chain.

The Coffee Experience: From Farm to Cup

El Parche takes pride in offering coffee that’s both traceable and exceptional. By sharing the stories of producers like Jose Domingo and highlighting regions like Nariño and Chapada Diamantina, they connect drinkers to the people and places behind every bean.

Brewing Tips for El Parche Coffees

Here are some tips to make the most of El Parche’s featured coffees:

Volcano Espresso Blend

• Use 20g of coffee for a double shot espresso.

• Aim for a yield of 40g in 28-32 seconds.

• For a stovetop or plunger, adjust the grind size for a balanced extraction.

Jose Domingo - Filter Roast

• Use 15g of coffee with 250g of water at 96°C for a pour-over.

• Brew over 2:30-3:00 minutes for a clean, crisp cup.

• Try it as a cold brew for a refreshing, sweet summer drink.

The Future of El Parche Coffee Roasters

El Parche isn’t just about exceptional coffee—it’s about building a sustainable future for farmers, drinkers, and the environment. With a focus on innovation, education, and ethical practices, they aim to share more unique coffees from South and Central America while creating meaningful connections along the way.

Conclusion: Discover the Heart of El Parche Coffee

El Parche Coffee Roasters brings the passion, flavours, and stories of Colombia to Melbourne. From the bright, juicy Volcano Espresso Blend to the complex, delicate Jose Domingo filter roast, every cup is crafted with care and respect. Whether you’re new to specialty coffee or a seasoned enthusiast, El Parche invites you to experience coffee that’s as vibrant and rich as its origins.

FAQs About El Parche Coffee Roasters

1. Where is El Parche Coffee based?
El Parche Coffee Roasters is based in Melbourne, Australia, with roots in Colombia.

2. What makes El Parche’s coffees unique?
Their focus on South and Central American coffees, combined with sustainable sourcing and direct relationships with growers, ensures exceptional quality and transparency.

3. What is the Volcano Espresso Blend best for?
The Volcano Blend is perfect for espresso, stovetop, and plunger brewing methods, offering a sweet, juicy, and balanced cup.

4. How should I brew the Jose Domingo filter roast?
Use a pour-over, Aeropress, or cold brew method to highlight its crisp stone fruit acidity and clean sweetness.

5. Is El Parche committed to sustainability?
Yes, El Parche uses recyclable packaging and continually improves its processes to minimise environmental impact.