Every great coffee has a story. For La Gran Dama, it begins high in the mountains of Cajamarca, Peru — and it’s one rooted in discovery, heritage, and respect.

Alejandro Puga, founder of Puga-Milano, was born and raised in Cajamarca — a region where coffee is as much a part of life as the morning sun. For years, he knew the people, the land, and the tradition. But only recently did he truly discover how extraordinary the coffee from his homeland is — rich, elegant, and full of character.

That realization led him home — and to a group of remarkable women changing the face of Peruvian coffee: Las Damas de San Ignacio.

👩🏽🌾 The Women Who Inspired It All

In the lush hills of San Ignacio, a collective of women farmers decided to take their destiny into their own hands. They formed Las Damas de San Ignacio, a women-led movement within their cooperative dedicated to producing coffee with care, equality, and purpose.

They manage their farms between 1,500 and 1,750 meters above sea level, where crisp mountain air and rich volcanic soil produce beans known for their milk chocolate, brown sugar, and citrus notes — a smooth, refined flavor that captures the essence of Cajamarca.

But beyond great coffee, these women are community builders. They teach new skills, run local programs, and lead initiatives that empower other women and strengthen families. Their work proves that when women lead, communities flourish.

🌹 An Homage: La Gran Dama

Inspired by their spirit, Alejandro and the Puga-Milano team created La Gran Dama — a coffee crafted in homage to Las Damas de San Ignacio and the land they nurture.

It’s more than a blend; it’s a bridge.
A connection between Cajamarca’s mountains and the modern coffee lover’s cup — between tradition and discovery, resilience and refinement.

With each sip, La Gran Dama celebrates the women whose dedication elevates Peruvian coffee to greatness — and honors the place that inspired it all.

💫 Why We Love It

La Gran Dama isn’t just a coffee; it’s a story of rediscovery, empowerment, and gratitude — a tribute to the women of Cajamarca, now finally recognized for the incredible coffee it’s been quietly perfecting all along.