GUATEMALA MONTE ROSA

The roast approach for the Guatemala is similar to the Peru. However, these beans behave very differently, they hold on to their temperature quite well. As all coffees, it too, demands a lot of care and attention. It popping sounds of this one are very loud and distinct. Last pops of first crack, and it’s the cooling tray. 

SPECIES | ARABICA

PROCESS | WASHED

VARIETALS | BOURBON, CATUAI, CATURRA

ALTITUDE | 1,450-1,600 MASL

FARM SIZE | 675 HA

Nueva Granada is a deep green coffee farm in San Marcos, nestled by the two tallest volcanos in Guatemala -- Tajumulco and Tacana. In March and April the coffee trees bloom with jasmine-scented starry flowers that drift like clouds over the farm. The green buds then grow under the canopy of shade trees until, by late October, plump cherries cascade down the branches and begin to ripen.

Over 60 hectares are reserved for wild woods, allowing animals such as pumas and deer to pass through and visit other farms in the area. The rest of the farm has tree cover too, amongst the Inga, macadamia trees which provide an additional source of income. Although Eco Processors are the preferred method due to lower water usage, springs burst forth on the farm and are sometimes used in processing. Coffee is milled at the farm.

Spring water is also harvested to provide a clean source to nearby villages. Health workers are employed to cover education, first aid, as well as vaccinations. Schooling is paid for and scholarships are made available every year.

ROASTERS RECOMMENDED RECIPE - INVERTED AEROPRESS

Brew Method: Aeropress

Grind Size: Medium

Coffee: 18 grams

Water: 90ml (just off the boil)

Brew Time: 1 mins 35 seconds

For us, this yields a lovely sweet coffee which stays true to the inherent qualities our Guatemala, Las Esmeralda offers. Should you want to add milk, this brewing method offers enough body for milk to cut through it.

The Aeropress is one of our favourite brewers thanks to the versatility it offers. The inverted method gives me more control while brewing as all the ground coffee is in contact with the water during the brewing period.

Bonus tip: when drinking our coffees black it pays off to give the brews time to cool down as this will give the flavours a chance to open up even more.

You can find more details on this brew method in our brew guides.