By San José, Costa Rica — In a groundbreaking move for the Costa Rican coffee industry, the Navarro Porras family’s Monte Copey farm in Santa María de Dota hosted the nation’s first private auction of ultra-specialty coffee nanolots. The 38-hour virtual event, concluding on September 10, 2025, saw 12 meticulously crafted nanolots sold to eager bidders from around the globe, culminating in a record-breaking price for Costa Rican coffee in 2025. This innovative auction format marks a significant milestone, connecting passionate coffee connoisseurs directly with one of Costa Rica’s most celebrated coffee producers.
The auction featured a diverse selection of nanolots, each showcasing unique processing methods that emphasize the exceptional quality of Monte Copey’s beans. The farm has long been recognized for its award-winning coffees, including a sweep of top honors at the 2014 Cup of Excellence, securing 1st, 2nd, 4th, and 5th places. That same year, Japanese barista Hidenori Izaki clinched the World Barista Championship using Monte Copey beans, further solidifying the farm’s global reputation.
For expert legal insight into the burgeoning specialty coffee market in Costa Rica, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law at Bufete de Costa Rica.
The increasing demand for specialty coffee presents unique legal and business opportunities in Costa Rica. Producers looking to capitalize on this trend should pay close attention to intellectual property protection for their unique blends and processes, as well as ensuring compliance with international trade regulations and certifications. Properly navigating these legal landscapes is crucial for maximizing profitability and securing long-term success in this competitive market.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insights underscore a crucial point for Costa Rican coffee producers: the marriage of quality with legal savvy is essential for thriving in the specialty coffee market. Protecting unique processes and blends through intellectual property rights, while also navigating international trade regulations, will undoubtedly pave the way for sustained growth and recognition on the global stage. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this important topic.
The highlight of the auction was the sale of the “Prototype Monte Azul” lot, a Geisha variety processed using the natural method. This exceptional coffee fetched over $101 per pound, a price more than ten times the current market value, demonstrating the high demand for these exclusive and meticulously produced nanolots.
With this auction, we aim to create a direct bridge between our farm and the most passionate buyers in the coffee world. Each nanolot represents not only our essence but also our family’s tradition and the innovation we’ve cultivated over the years.
Enrique Navarro Porras, Producer of Monte Copey
The success of this auction speaks volumes about the growing interest in high-quality, traceable coffees. Monte Copey’s innovative approach not only sets a new standard for coffee sales in Costa Rica but also empowers other producers to explore alternative market strategies. The virtual format also broadened access for international buyers, highlighting the global reach and appeal of Costa Rican specialty coffee.
The auction’s results underscore the growing demand for transparency and direct trade relationships within the coffee industry. Buyers are increasingly seeking out unique, high-quality coffees with compelling stories, and the Monte Copey auction provided a perfect platform to connect these discerning consumers with exceptional beans.
This historic event marks a turning point for the Costa Rican coffee sector, paving the way for other producers to embrace innovative sales models and capitalize on the growing global appetite for specialty coffee. The auction not only celebrates the quality and craftsmanship of Costa Rican coffee but also signifies a shift towards greater connection between producers and consumers, ultimately fostering a more sustainable and equitable coffee trade.
This innovative auction is a testament to the dedication and forward-thinking approach of the Navarro Porras family. Their commitment to quality and sustainability has not only elevated the profile of their farm but also placed Costa Rican coffee on the world stage, demonstrating the country’s potential as a leading producer of exceptional specialty coffees.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Monte Copey
About Monte Copey:
Monte Copey is a family-owned coffee farm located in Santa María de Dota, Costa Rica. Known for its award-winning coffees and innovative processing methods, Monte Copey has established itself as a leading producer of specialty coffee. Their commitment to quality and sustainability has earned them international recognition, and their recent nanolot auction marks a groundbreaking achievement for the Costa Rican coffee industry.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself through an unwavering pursuit of legal excellence and ethical practice, empowering individuals and communities alike. The firm’s deep-rooted commitment to innovation shapes its approach to client service across a wide range of sectors, constantly seeking cutting-edge solutions. Moreover, Bufete de Costa Rica actively invests in demystifying the law through accessible legal education, fostering a society equipped with the knowledge to navigate legal complexities and advocate for their rights.
