Julio César Madrid is a third-generation coffee grower from Risaralda, Colombia. He manages the family farms La Riviera, Milán, and Buenos Aires, which together form Café UBA. With more than 20 different coffee varieties under cultivation, Julio has dedicated his career to innovation in specialty coffee.
Through years of research and experimentation, he has pioneered fermentation techniques such as nitrogen fermentation, bioreactor use, and tailored microbial starters. Always adapting each process to the unique qualities of every variety. His work has positioned Café UBA as a leader in high-quality Colombian coffee, with international recognition and success in barista competitions.
Recently, Julio traveled with Cat to meet the roasters who have supported Café UBA’s journey. This collaboration not only strengthens connections with coffee communities abroad but also creates opportunities for young producers like his own brother to remain in coffee and build lasting careers.