El Conacaste – Java Variety

Founded in 1996 as a reforestation project, Finca Conacaste transformed 210 hectares of former corn and cattle farmland into a more biodiverse agroforestry system. Its proximity to Montecristo National Park—part of a 460-square-mile transboundary protected cloud forest spanning El Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala—made this mission especially meaningful. For years, the farm cultivated pantry staples before planting its first coffee in 2014. Since then, it has consistently ranked among the top finishers in national quality competitions like the Cup of Excellence. This particular lot, a Java variety separation, was purchased as an exclusive offering for our subscribers for its syrupy sweetness and rich notes of brown sugar and toffee.

Pronunciation: El koh-nah-KAHS-te

Produced by Finca Conacaste in Guatemala, this offering from Counter Culture Coffee highlights the unique profile of the Java varietal. While the Java plant is often recognized for its resilience and distinct botanical lineage, this specific lot is characterized by a profile defined by syrupy sweetness, brown sugar, and toffee.

When evaluating such coffees, enthusiasts often consult the flavor wheel to better identify the nuances of these sugar-browning notes. Coffees from this region frequently exhibit a balanced structure, and the Java varietal is often noted for its potential to produce a clean, refined cup. By focusing on the interplay between the producer’s careful cultivation and the inherent qualities of the Java plant, this selection provides a clear example of how specific varietals can influence the final sensory experience in the cup.