Rising Star - Nicaragua: Before the 1980's, Nicaragua was considered to be the breadbasket of Central America - a hard-working people living on lush fertile lands, harvesting a coffee worthy of recognition in international circles. The revived coffee industry has slowly taken root once again, and production is returning to its original levels as is it's once famous quality. A visit to the Northern coffee producing regions of Nicaragua is an experience not to be missed for those true of heart and rugged of spirit.

Nowhere are coffee cooperatives more strong and more dynamic than in Nicaragua. Quality is recognized in awards that the cooperatives have won in annual Cup of Excellence contests and other competitions. Nicaragua also has a larger percentage of shade plantations than any other Central American producing nation. Effective shade management techniques provide the proper balance of sun and shade in the different climatic regions.