Guatemala - Joyabaj - Natural

This exceptional coffee hails from the highlands of the Joyabaj region in Guatemala, where the perfect combination of climate, soil, and elevation creates the ideal conditions for growing some of the world's finest coffee beans.

The Joyabaj Wet Mill began operations in 2021 and has since become a central hub for coffee processing in the area. In its first year, the mill processed 5,000 quintals of parchment coffee, running from January to April. This facility is strategically located, making it accessible to the necessary services and resources required for efficient coffee processing.

Upon arrival at the mill, the coffee cherries are washed, followed by a selection process that removes any floating beans, which are often of lower quality. The cherries are then fermented with their husks for an average of 8 hours, and naturally-processed. After fermentation, the beans are transferred to drying patios or African beds, where they dry for approximately 8 to 10 days. To ensure uniform drying, the beans are manually turned and monitored daily, a process that requires great care and attention.

This coffee bursts with the bright and juicy flavors of blackberry and strawberry, making it a perfect choice for those who appreciate a fruit-forward cup. The sweetness carries through to the finish, leaving a lingering, pleasant aftertaste that invites you back for another sip.

As with all of our single-origins, this coffee is best enjoyed as a pour-over cup, where you can control as many variables as possible. As a pour-over, you can really taste the complexity and nuance of every flavor that we aim to enhance while roasting. Even as espresso and milk though, Guatemala Joyabaj retains its complexity and depth when properly dialed-in. The natural processing method amplifies the fruit-forward notes, ensuring that each cup is as vibrant as the last!

At Blossom Coffee Roasters, we prioritize ethical sourcing and sustainability. The farmers who produce our Guatemala Joyabaj coffee are part of a fair trade cooperative, ensuring they receive a fair price for their hard work. The organic certification by the Washington State Department of Agriculture further guarantees that this coffee is grown without harmful chemicals, protecting both the environment and the health of the farming communities.

Sourced from the Joyabaj region of Guatemala, this natural-processed offering from Blossom Coffee Roasters highlights the distinct character of its origin. While Guatemala is frequently celebrated for its balanced, washed-process profiles, this specific lot utilizes the natural process, a method where the coffee cherry remains intact during drying. This technique often encourages the development of intense, fruit-forward sweetness in the cup.

In this instance, the roaster identifies prominent notes of blackberry and strawberry. These vibrant, berry-like qualities are common descriptors found within the fruit-forward sections of the flavor wheel. By allowing the bean to absorb the sugars from the fruit pulp, this coffee presents a profile that diverges from traditional regional expectations, offering a unique sensory experience for those interested in how processing choices influence the final cup.