| Country | Guatemala |
|---|---|
| Varietal | Arabica Bourbon |
| Processing | Fully washed |
| Crop | March 2025 |
| Partnership | since 2011 |
| Flavour | Sweet & Creamy |
Los Santos
The coffee comes from several smallholder farmers whose farms are located northwest of Antigua. These farmers deliver their cherries to the Bella Vista processing station, owned by Luis Pedro Zelaya—a prominent figure in the Guatemalan coffee scene. In addition to running the processing station, he also owns a number of farms in the Antigua region.
Farm Coffee Series
Regenerative farming practices
On the farms around Antigua managed by Luis Pedro, there is a gradual shift toward more sustainable agricultural methods. Synthetic fertilizers have been replaced with compost, coffee trees grow in the shade of other trees, anti-erosion measures are being expanded, and life is slowly returning to the soil. Additional crops—such as avocados and bananas—are being planted not only to support biodiversity but also as an extra source of income. It’s a long-term strategy aimed at ensuring the sustainability of coffee production.
Processing and its impact on flavor
Bourbon variety cherries are delivered daily after harvest to the Bella Vista mill, located right on the edge of Antigua. After depulping, the beans ferment for 24 hours in concrete tanks. The coffee is then dried on concrete patios and raised African beds inside covered drying houses. This process results in a clean and balanced cup with gentle fruit acidity, characteristic sweetness, and an almond-like finish.
