From Our Homeland to Your Home: The Soul of Guatemalan Specialty Coffee

At Via Guatemala, we believe that a cup of coffee is more than just a morning ritual. It’s a story, a journey, a connection to the land and the hands that nurtured it. For us, that story begins in the heart of Guatemala, a land of breathtaking volcanoes, rich traditions, and a coffee heritage that runs as deep as our roots.

This is your guide to the world of Guatemalan specialty coffee, as we see it—a world of passion, purpose, and unparalleled flavor.

What Makes Our Coffee “Specialty”?

You’ll see the word “specialty” on our bags, but what does it truly mean? For the industry, it’s a grade, a score of 80 points or higher from the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), awarded by experts who analyze every nuance of aroma and taste. It’s a promise of quality, a guarantee that the beans in your cup are free of defects and full of character.

But for us, “specialty” is more than a score. It’s a commitment. It’s about honoring the generations of farmers who have perfected their craft. It’s about a connection to the volcanic soil that gives our beans their soul. And it’s about a taste so exceptional it can transport you to the highlands of our beautiful Guatemala.

Guatemala’s Legacy in Every Cup

Guatemala is a giant in the world of coffee, and not just because of its impressive output of over 3.5 million bags a year. Our country’s true strength lies in its unwavering dedication to quality. We are a nation of artisans, and our farmers are masters of their craft, producing some of the highest percentages of specialty-grade beans in the world.

This industry is the lifeblood of our nation. It’s a source of pride and a vital economic engine, supporting over 125,000 families and creating more than half a million jobs. When you choose Via Guatemala, you’re not just buying coffee; you’re investing in the future of these communities.

A Journey Through Our Coffee Lands

The magic of our coffee lies in its diversity. Each of our growing regions tells a different story, shaped by the unique microclimates that bless our land.

• Huehuetenango: Imagine a coffee born in the crisp mountain air of the northern highlands. Here, warm winds protect the coffee trees from frost, allowing them to flourish at incredible altitudes. The result is a cup that is bright and vibrant, with a lively acidity and a rich, full body that dances on the palate.

• Antigua: This is the legendary heart of Guatemalan coffee, a place where three majestic volcanoes have nurtured the soil for centuries. Our Antigua beans are the epitome of elegance and balance, a symphony of flavor that has earned it a “Protected Designation of Origin.” When you taste Antigua, you’re tasting history.

• Atitlán, Cobán, Fraijanes: From the misty rainforests of Cobán to the shores of the stunning Lake Atitlán, each region offers a unique expression of our terroir. Whether it’s the bright, citrusy notes of Atitlán or the delicate floral hints of Cobán, you’ll discover a world of flavor in every cup.

The Flavors of Our Heritage

While every harvest is unique, here’s a taste of what you can expect from our different regions:

Sourcing with Soul: Our Promise to Our People

For us, the story of our coffee is incomplete without the story of our people. That’s why we are committed to Direct Trade practices, building personal relationships with our farmers and paying them a fair price for their incredible work. This isn't just about charity; it's about partnership.

We believe that luxury should come with a conscience. By choosing Via Guatemala, you’re supporting a model that empowers farmers, strengthens communities, and preserves the natural beauty of our homeland for generations to come.

Brewing the Perfect Cup: Our Recommendations

To truly honor the journey of our beans, we recommend brewing them with care and intention.

• For the Espresso Lover: Our Guatemalan beans create a beautifully balanced shot, rich with chocolate and toffee notes.

  • Our Recipe: 18g in, 36g out, in about 28 seconds.

• For the Pour-Over Enthusiast (V60 & Chemex): To experience the delicate nuances of our coffee, a pour-over is the perfect choice.

  • Our Ratio: We love a 1:16 ratio (1 part coffee to 16 parts water) to let the flavors shine.

Your Questions, Answered

How do I know I’m buying quality beans?

Look for the story. A quality bag of coffee will tell you where it’s from—the region, the farm, the varietal. And always, always check the roast date. Freshness is everything.

What’s the difference between your coffee and what I find in the supermarket?

The difference is in the intention. Our coffee is grown for flavor, not for volume. It’s hand-picked at peak ripeness and roasted with care to bring out its unique character. The result is a cup that is sweet, vibrant, and free of the bitterness often found in commercial coffee.

From our family to yours, we invite you to experience the soul of Guatemala in every cup. Thank you for being a part of our story.