Ricardo Herrera has been our point man on the ground for Specialty coffee in Costa Rica and Guatemala since 2006.

He is a 4th generation coffee professional from a long line of Costa Rican coffee growers with a proud history in the business. After completing his Bachelor Degree in Business at the University of Costa Rica, he started his career as the Traffic and Logistics Manager for a small specialty coffee exporting company based in San Jose. Four years in this capacity provided the exposure and hands on training required to learn every aspect of growing, processing, exporting and importing specialty coffee. In 2007 Ricardo joined InterAmerican as a coffee sourcing and marketing agent of the best Costa Rican and Guatemalan coffees available. In this capacity Ricardo facilitates and accompanies roasters in their search of the finest coffees available throughout hidden and remote corners of the Costa Rican and Guatemalan highlands. His duties include regular travel and farm visits, maintaining relationships with growers & producers, followed by all related tasks of green coffee purchasing, trading, cupping, sales, marketing, and follow up.

Ricardo's experience and abilities in cupping coffees have brought him awards and prizes and invitations to partake in judging in the most recognized cupping events in Costa Rica. In addition to his Q-grade certification, he has been recognized wit h the following awards; 1st place at the Costa Rica National Cupping Competition in 2004, International Judge Panel at Sintercafe Cupping Competition 2004, Inernational Judge Panel at the Crop of Gold Cuppings in 2005, 1st Place at Sintercafe`s Cupping Competition 2006, Costa Rica Cup of Excellence National and International Judge 2007.

Ricardo is an active board member of the Specialty Coffee Association of Costa Rica and advocate of sustainability for the coffee sector.

As a 4th generation of coffee producer and green coffee trader, it is easy to understand why coffee is part of his genetic makeup. He is a devoted specialty coffee person, floating between Costa Rica and Guatemala in the relentless pursuit of the best and most unique coffees these regions have to offer.

Ricardo can be reached by email at ricardoh@iaccoffee.com or by telephone at 1-800-346-2810.