Guatemala
Central America
Guatemala is the life of the party. It gets along with everyone and requests the best throwback jams you thought you forgot. Guatemalan coffee is often strictly high grown, as is the case with our Guatemala Huehuetenango, meaning the coffee is more dynamic in terms of acidity (brightness) and its flavors, such as stone fruit, cacao, and spice. For context, the flavor of coffee grown at lower altitudes tends to be more nuanced and earthy.
Associación de Apicultores y Caficultores de Unión de Cantinil
Abbreviated AAPICUC, this organization of coffee growers and beekeepers is simply dedicated to producing better coffee. Founded in 2013 and over 20 member producers strong, AAPICUC runs a self-sufficient operation that respects and benefits the environment. They reduce waste on the farms and in Unión Cantinil by composting coffee pulp and cow manure for use in their fields. In five months, the compost will be nutritious enough to be reintroduced into the soil, but the positive environmental practices don’t stop there.
Bees Make Coffee Better
It’s true. AAPICUC is always working on newer, better ways to be more sustainable and eco-friendlier, which is where bees come in. About half of the producers are also beekeepers. According to NPR, bees contribute a significant amount to coffee. These pollinators are responsible for 20% to 25% greater coffee yields.
How AAPICUC Does It
The association’s micro-warehouses and direct buying stations across the region help cut associated transportation costs while simultaneously giving smallholders access to a stable market for their products. The Unión Cantinil micro-warehouse, in particular, is situated in the heart of the community and receives some of Huehuetenango’s best and brightest coffees.
Washing and Drying
All AAPICUC coffee is fully washed, which is typical of high-quality coffee. Washed coffee is all about the seed, not the cherry. Most specialty coffees are washed because this process gives the most true-to-origin experience, as the mucilage can impart syrupy flavors if left intact during processing. The beans are then spread out in rows to dry in the sun.
Organic and Fair Trade
AAPICUC is certified Fair Trade and organic, which is great for the community in Huehuetenango and for consumers all over the world. These certifications translate to quality, environmental stewardship, and fair wages. The benefits of organic certification for the producers and the roasters are huge. Certification gives access to markets otherwise unavailable, premium pricing, and eligibility for grants and financial assistance, among many other things. Fair Trade also ensures fair financial compensation for their coffee, with a minimum Fair Trade market price plus up to a 20¢ premium per pound.
Fresh Roasted Coffee Brings the Heat
Our Organic Guatemalan is revered for its balanced flavor and velvety smooth body. With mild and citric acidity and a balanced flavor profile of milk chocolate and orange, this is a delectable cup you’ll keep coming back to.
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