Guatemalan coffees have long been among the more prized Central American beans – I’ve written previously about the fact that Honduran coffee farmers used to route their beans through Guatemala in order to command higher prices from American coffee buyers.
The coffees of course can vary widely in flavor, but often exhibit floral, sweet and smoky elements amidst bright, citrusy acidity that is a signature characteristic of many Latin American coffees. Presently, Guatamala is entering the peak of its coffee shipping season, meaning that roasters are beginning to receive the year’s best Guatemalan coffees, and will continue to do so for the upcoming months. As such, if you see a fresh-roasted Guatemalan coffee from your favorite roaster, pick up a bag. Here are a few suggestions to get you started.
Zoka Coffee Roasters – Guatemala Yellow Catuai | This varietal is grown in the Acatenango region of Guatemala on Finca Paraxaj, which has been a coffee plantation since 1945. The plants that yield this coffee are between 12 and 14 years old, and produce beans that exhibit bright citrus and honeyed sweetness. || $17.95/12oz.
Night Owl Coffee Roasters – Guatemala Bella Carmona | This Northeast Portland roaster maintains a direct relationship with the growers of this coffee, which is medium roasted to unlock an earthy, chocolatey flavor profile. || $12.95/12oz.
DOMA Coffee Roasting Company – Guatemala San Pedro La Laguna | In the southwest corner of the country, just west of Lake Atitlan, this plantation grows beans that exhibit tropical fruit flavor and sweetness accented by nuances of dark chocolate. || $14.20/12oz.
