Introduction to Guatemala's Valhalla Estate and Famous Coffee Growing Regions

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Guatemala: The Cultural Coffee Heritage

Guatemala is one of the ancient centers of Mayan culture. From the 4th to the 11th century, the Petén lowlands of Guatemala were the heart of Mayan civilization. Many pyramids and city ruins from this period remain visible today.

Located at approximately 15 degrees latitude, Guatemala borders the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Caribbean Sea to the east. The Sierra mountain range along the Pacific side constitutes Guatemala's main coffee-growing region. Due to the extensive mountain range and significant regional climate variations, Guatemala has developed seven distinct coffee-producing regions. Each region yields coffee with unique flavors and characteristics. Among these, Antigua's coffee is renowned for its mild acidity, rich full-bodied flavor, and subtle volcanic carbon notes, making Guatemala particularly famous worldwide for the Antigua region. Guatemala's coffee belongs to the Arabica species and is processed using the washed method. In the far northwestern region lies the Huehuetenango highlands, where coffee grown at altitudes above 5,000 feet exhibits characteristics typical of high-altitude coffee: dense texture, pronounced acidity, and rich flavor complexity, making it another of Guatemala's distinctive coffees.

Valmar Estate: The Cobán Rainforest Gem

Valmar Estate is situated in the Cobán region, a perfect growing area characterized by steep mountain ranges, lush rainforests, and enchanting floral aromas, including pristine natural environments and unique microclimates. The contrast between high-altitude mountains and high-humidity tropical rainforests creates constant mist from descending dense clouds. Most coffee in the Cobán rainforest region is grown on special rolling hills, harmoniously coexisting with rainforests formed by local native tree species.

In this exceptionally blessed rainforest region, the Valmar family has operated the estate for over a century, deeply committed to environmental responsibility and sustainable practices. They preserve more than half of the native forest, providing habitat for diverse wildlife. During production, the estate uses coffee pulp as organic compost. The family remains committed to coffee excellence, carefully managing every step from seed selection to final storage. Coffee is hand-picked and processed in eco-friendly washing facilities that reduce water consumption, after which the water is recycled.

Through Valmar Estate's dedicated management, not only is the integrity of the local rainforest ecosystem preserved, but the estate's coffee beans also embody the classic characteristics of the Cobán region.

In 2012, Valmar Estate participated in the Cup Of Excellence competition for the first time and achieved recognition by securing third place.

Estate Details

Estate: Valmar Estate

Awards: 2012 COE Third Place, Cobán Regional Competition 12-time consecutive champion

Region: Cobán Rainforest Region

Altitude: 1400-1600m

Processing Method: Washed (semi-fermentation & double immersion) + water resting

Variety: 100% Caturra

Harvest Season: 2017-2018

Soil: Rainforest soil

Shade Trees: Inga

Annual Rainfall: 3000-4000mm

FrontStreet Coffee recommends brewing with water at 89-90°C, which brings out the distinctive smoky notes in the finish.

FrontStreet Coffee: A roastery in Guangzhou with a small shop but diverse bean selection, offering both famous and lesser-known varieties, plus online services. https://shop104210103.taobao.com

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