Introduction to Vista Hermosa Estate in Guatemala's Cobán Region: What Flavors Define Cobán Coffee?

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The nickname "Guadi"

"Guadi" is the nickname that coffee enthusiasts have given to Guatemala. This important town from the Maya civilization era is situated on 37 volcanoes, two of which erupted successively in 2010. Coupled with frequent tornadoes and ubiquitous natural disasters, it is truly a "dangerous place." However, the fertile volcanic soil, undulating mountain terrain, and varied microclimates provide ideal conditions for coffee cultivation. As of 2011, Guatemala was the highest coffee-producing country in Central America.

The meaning of "Coban"

The name "Coban" comes from the Qʼeqchi language word "CobʼAn," meaning "place of fog."

Coban producing region

Coban producing region is a perfect region with steep mountain ranges, lush rainforests, and enchanting floral fragrances, including undisturbed natural environments and unique microclimates. The contrast between high-altitude mountain ranges and high-humidity tropical rainforests keeps this place perpetually shrouded in thick mist formed by dense clouds descending. Coban has two seasons: rainy season, and an even rainier season. The annual rainfall here is the second highest among all coffee-producing regions in Guatemala, with the most intense rainfall from May to December. Most coffee in the Coban rainforest region is grown on special rolling hills, harmoniously coexisting with the rainforest formed by local native tree species.

The Coban producing region has always been like the most rebellious family member in the large family of Guatemalan flavors—breaking away from the traditional framework where Guatemalan coffee mainly featured nut and chocolate notes, instead showcasing rich tropical fruit flavors. In the early days, due to excessive humidity and uneven harvest seasons, the Coban region struggled to enter the specialty coffee hall of fame under disadvantageous conditions. Today, Finca Vista Hermosa has introduced technology and emphasized quality, significantly improving the cleanliness and consistency of coffee flavors.

Finca Vista Hermosa

Finca Vista Hermosa is one of the earliest cultivated estates in the Coban region. German immigrants opened this land and simultaneously brought advanced coffee cultivation techniques to Guatemala. Located deep in the misty forests of the Coban region, influenced by the climate of the northern Petén rainforest, Coban's fine rain never ceases. The non-volcanic clay soil gives the Coban region a very unique, fruit-toned flavor, different from all other Guatemalan producing regions.

Estate Details

Estate: Finca Vista Hermosa (100% hand-picked and selected red ripe cherries)

Region: Coban Rainforest Region

Altitude: 1500m

Soil: Rainforest soil

Shade trees: Inga

Annual rainfall: 3000-4000mm

Processing method: Traditional wet washing method

Harvest season: 2017-2018

Varieties: Caturra, Catuai

Moisture content: 10.9%

Flavor: Kumquat, pear, sugar apple, high sweetness of black plum, citrus acidity, milk chocolate aftertaste

For Finca Vista Hermosa's coffee, FrontStreet Coffee recommends brewing with 89-91°C water to taste the sweet and sour flavors of peach, plum, and preserves, as well as warm melon-type fruit aromas and acidity. Due to high sweetness, the mouthfeel is full with a lasting aftertaste.

FrontStreet Coffee: A roastery in Guangzhou with a small shop but diverse bean varieties, where you can find both famous and lesser-known beans. Online store services are also available. https://shop104210103.taobao.com

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