Finca La Hermosa - Pacamara Variety

Finca La Hermosa began in 2010 as an abandoned parcel on the slopes of the Acatenango volcano, with no water or electricity. Today it's a thriving family farm run by Claudia and Max, whose resourcefulness and dedication to sustainability and quality have earned them multiple Cup of Excellence placements. 

Planted alongside the larger lots that go into our year-round products like Fast Forward are 32 varieties not often seen in Guatemala. Among those is Pacamara, a cross of Pacas and Maragogipe developed in El Salvador, where it dominates the national Cup of Excellence. Grown in Acatenango's volcanic soil, the variety shows similar brilliance here: complex notes of ripe honeydew and bright green apple, carried by a creamy body that ties the cup together.

Pronunciation: FEENG-kah lah ehr-MOH-sah

Produced by Claudia and Max in the Acatenango region of Guatemala, Finca La Hermosa showcases the distinct characteristics of the Pacamara varietal. This specific lot, offered by Counter Culture Coffee, highlights the cultivar's potential for vibrant acidity and complex sweetness, presenting tasting notes of ripe honeydew and bright green apple.

The Pacamara variety is a deliberate cross between the Pacas and Maragogype cultivars, often recognized for its large bean size and a tendency toward bold, expressive profiles. When evaluating such coffees, enthusiasts often consult a flavor wheel to better identify the nuanced fruit and sugar-browning notes that frequently emerge in high-quality harvests. By focusing on the specific terroir of Acatenango, Claudia and Max have crafted a coffee that exemplifies the unique intersection of regional climate and genetic heritage, providing a clear window into the distinct qualities that define this celebrated Guatemalan farm.