Guatemala Huehuetenango Coffee: Origin Guide

Nestled in the highlands of Guatemala, Huehuetenango (pronounced "way-way-ten-ango") is a region that has become synonymous with high-quality coffee production. Located in the western part of the country, near the border with Mexico, the region boasts altitudes of up to 2,000 meters above sea level. The unique combination of high altitude, abundant rainfall, and nutrient-rich soil has made Huehuetenango a prime location for growing some of the world's most sought-after specialty coffees.

History Of The Region

Coffee was first introduced to Guatemala in the 18th century, and by the mid-19th century, the crop had become an integral part of the country's economy. Huehuetenango's coffee production started around the same time, with small-scale farmers planting coffee trees amidst the region's diverse flora and fauna. Today, the legacy of these early coffee pioneers continues, as many of the coffee farms in Huehuetenango have been passed down through generations of family farmers.

Farming & Processing Methods

In Huehuetenango, most coffee farms are small and family-owned, with a strong focus on traditional and sustainable farming methods. Farmers in the region primarily grow Arabica coffee, specifically the Bourbon and Caturra varieties. These coffee plants are often intercropped with other plants, such as avocado and banana trees, which provide shade and help maintain soil fertility.

While coffee processing methods can vary from farm to farm, the majority of coffee producers in Huehuetenango follow the washed processing method. This method involves depulping the coffee cherries to remove the outer skin and pulp, followed by a fermentation process to break down the remaining mucilage. The coffee beans are then washed and spread out to dry in the sun. This method helps to preserve the coffee's unique flavors and ensures a clean, bright cup profile.

Some farmers in the region may also utilize the honey or natural processing methods. The honey process involves removing the cherry's skin and pulp, but leaving a small amount of mucilage on the bean, which is then dried in the sun. Natural processing, on the other hand, involves drying the whole coffee cherry, often resulting in a fruitier and more complex flavor profile.

Tasting Notes

Coffees from Huehuetenango are well-known for their complex flavors and bright acidity, often attributed to the region's high altitude and fertile soil. Typical flavor notes found in these coffees include red fruit, such as cherry or raspberry, as well as floral and citrus undertones. The coffee's body is often described as medium to full, with a silky and smooth mouthfeel. Huehuetenango coffees are also praised for their balanced and clean cup profiles, making them a popular choice among specialty coffee enthusiasts.

Notable Farms

One of the most renowned coffee farms in Huehuetenango is Finca El Injerto, owned by the Aguirre family. This farm has consistently won awards for its exceptional coffees, including multiple first-place finishes in the Cup of Excellence competition. Finca El Injerto is known for its dedication to sustainable farming practices and its commitment to producing high-quality, traceable coffees. Other notable farms in the region include Finca La Bolsa and Finca La Esperanza, both of which have also earned accolades for their exceptional coffee offerings.

As the world of specialty coffee continues to grow and evolve, Huehuetenango's unique terroir and commitment to quality make it a region that will undoubtedly remain at the forefront of coffee production for years to come.