Solitude Espresso
Our seasonal coffees each come with their own story, which is part of what makes them so special. Here we take a closer look at the producers behind this coffee.
THE REGION
Situated in mountain region of Sierra de las Minas in the Department of El Progreso is Finca La Bendición. The Sierra de las Minas range is home to Mesoamerica’s largest cloud forests and houses a biodiverse array of ecosystems. Approximately 70% of all bird and mammal species in Guatemala and Belize are located within this mountainous region. Some species include the margay, cougar, and the iconic quetzal. A rich and biodiverse area to grow coffee in Guatemala.


THE FACTS
Varietals: Bourbon and Caturra
Processing: Fully washed
Altitude: 1,800 to 2,000 metres

THE FARM
José Gómez is the owner and manager of the farm’s 37.8 hectares of land. He grows mainly Bourbon, Caturra, Catuaí on the soils of Finca La Bendición, in addition to some smaller plots dedicated to producing Maracaturra, SL28 and Java. Native trees such as Shalum, Grevillea and Mora are used as shade for the coffee trees to help create a cool climate, ensuring an even ripening occurs.
There are six permanent staff that assist with tasks on the farm in addition to 40 seasonal workers that come during the harvest to pick cherries. This lot is comprised of Bourbon and Caturra and is processed utilizing the Washed method. After cleaning the cherries, and de-pulping, the coffee is dispersed on patios to dry in the open sun until the ideal moisture content is reached.