Farming Notes
This coffee is part of our “direct trade program,” based on actual relationships with real people. Cesar Gonzalez grew up in Guatemala, yet immigrated to America 4 years ago. We met through a mutual friend and coffee roaster and instantly became friends. His coffee knowledge and experience is highly coveted, having been involved with coffee for over 20 years. Cesar has sourced coffee from this region for several years, which means he knows the multiple farmers himself who attribute to this co-op. The friendship we have developed makes this coffee worth the price, knowing it is based in integrity. We plan to keep this coffee as a staple for many years to come since an organic coffee of this caliber for this price is nearly unheard of.
The Ixil Region is often called the Ixil Triangle, a phrase coined by the Guatemalan military due to the fierce fighting that occurred in the three main towns, San Gaspar Chajul, Santa Maria Nebaj, and San Juan Cotzal.
The region lies in the mountainous northern highlands of Guatemala. Even today, it’s difficult to get to. This remoteness has allowed the region to remain deeply indigenous. Many of the Mayan descendants speak the regional dialect, Ixil, and know little Spanish. Since this region borders the famous Antigua region, known for its cupping quality, we have seen some fantastic coffees come out of here the last few years, and with our contribution, through purchasing their coffee we can see the coffee become even better.
