Jose Jijon
Jose Jijon, alongside his father Pepe, cultivates extraordinary coffees at Finca San Pedro, nestled high at 2,222 metres in Ecuador’s Loja region. At Glass Coffee, we deeply admire Jose’s quiet dedication, thoughtful approach, and genuine connection to the land. Their Washed Typica Mejorado - produced in small lots and picked with meticulous care - stands as a testament to the family’s relentless pursuit of excellence.
Born into coffee farming, Jose initially saw it as harsh and unrewarding. His perspective shifted after experiencing the global impact of his father Pepe’s commitment to quality and sustainability. Following time abroad - including working as a barista in Brooklyn and engaging with global coffee communities - Jose now passionately advocates for a positive, inspiring view of Ecuadorian coffee farming. Jose shares, “Coffee brought me closer to my dad and showed me how powerful honest farming can be. I want others to feel inspired by this work, not discouraged.” His vision guides every step from cultivation to community outreach.
At Finca San Pedro, Jose and Pepe prioritize meticulous farming methods that protect biodiversity and nurture the soil. Situated in Loja’s dry, rocky terrain with intense sun exposure, their Mejorado variety develops complex flavours naturally. Cherries are gently depulped, washed, and dried methodically on raised beds, a straightforward approach highlighting the terroir’s purity.
The farm actively preserves biodiversity through reforestation and ecological conservation, protecting hundreds of acres untouched to ensure ecosystem stability. Jose emphasizes fair, supportive working conditions, ensuring the farm’s workers earn nearly three times the regional average wage. Happiness and harmony among the team, he believes, translate directly into the quality of their beans.In specialty coffee, “sustainability” can feel like an over-used buzzword - but at Finca Soledad and Finca San Pedro it’sfor real, lived every day rather than marketed. Jose and Pepe’s philosophy directly benefits their community and local environment. Beyond fair wages and supportive work environments, Jose actively engages in educational outreach, teaching rural Ecuadorian youth about the rewarding potential of sustainable coffee farming. His commitment extends beyond economic gain, aiming to inspire younger generations and secure coffee farming's future. By protecting critical cloud forest biodiversity, they also maintain habitats vital for countless species.
Jose’s Mejorado washed Mejorado delights with vibrant orange blossom aromas, sweet wildflower honey notes, and subtle hints of peach, finishing elegantly clean. Its bright, sweet and complex; profile that shines best as a gentle pour-over, revealing distinct layers with every sip. Jose describes it beautifully: “It’s like red apple pie - thick, buttery texture with crisp acidity.”
Meditations at 2,222 Metres
Jose Jijon | Ecuador
Papaya & Melon SyOxidator Harmony
Pepe | Ecuador
Valley Cold Wave
Pepe Jijon | Ecuador


