Guatemala Antigua Coffee: Origin Guide

Nestled in the heart of Central America is Guatemala, a country renowned for its high-quality coffee production. Among its coffee-growing regions, Antigua stands out as one of the most famous and beloved by coffee connoisseurs worldwide. Pronounced "an-TEE-gwah," this region is located in the central highlands of Guatemala, with an altitude ranging from 1,500 to 1,700 meters above sea level. An interesting fact about Antigua is that it is surrounded by three volcanoes, which contribute to the exceptional flavors found in the coffee produced in this region.

History Of The Region

Coffee production in Antigua dates back to the mid-19th century when the Guatemalan government introduced coffee plants in an effort to diversify the country's agricultural output. Initially, coffee was grown in the lower altitudes of the country. However, farmers soon discovered that the higher altitude lands of Antigua, with its rich volcanic soil and distinct microclimate, provided the ideal conditions to cultivate high-quality coffee beans. Over time, Antigua has developed a strong reputation for its coffee production, with its beans being sought after by coffee enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Farming & Processing Methods

In Antigua, coffee is predominantly grown on small family-owned farms that have been passed down through generations. Due to the region's unique climate and volcanic soil, farmers must take special care in their farming and processing methods to preserve the quality of the beans. Coffee plants are often shaded by native trees, which not only protect the plants from excessive sunlight but also maintain soil health through nitrogen-fixing properties. While it is difficult to generalize the processing methods used by all farmers in Antigua, most of them employ the traditional wet processing method. In this method, the coffee cherries are picked and immediately depulped to remove the outer skin and pulp. The beans are then fermented in water-filled tanks, which helps to break down the remaining mucilage. After fermentation, the beans are thoroughly washed and spread out to dry in the sun. This process is known to produce well-balanced and clean coffee flavors, which are characteristic of Antigua coffees.

Tasting Notes

Coffees from Antigua are well-known for their balanced and complex flavor profiles. The region's rich volcanic soil, high altitude, and unique microclimate contribute to the development of these distinct flavors. Typical tasting notes for Antigua coffee include bright acidity, medium to full body, and a smooth, velvety mouthfeel. Flavor-wise, one can expect a mix of chocolate, caramel, and subtle fruit notes, such as green apple, red berries, or citrus. The finish is often clean and lingering, making for a truly satisfying coffee experience

.While there may be many coffee farms in Antigua, one notable farm is Finca Filadelfia. Established in 1864, it is one of the oldest coffee farms in the region and has been recognized for its commitment to sustainability and exceptional coffee quality. Another notable farm is Finca Santa Clara, which has consistently produced award-winning coffees and is known for its innovative farming and processing techniques.

Antigua's rich history, unique terroir, and dedicated farmers have made it a highly respected coffee-growing region. The distinct flavors and exceptional quality of Antigua coffee continue to captivate and delight coffee lovers worldwide.