February Coffee Of the Month
This month, we’re excited to share a coffee that represents everything we love about classic Central American profiles: Guatemala Antigua SHB EP. It’s the kind of coffee that feels familiar and comforting, yet still offers layers of complexity that keep each cup interesting.
A Region Shaped by Volcanoes
The Antigua coffee region sits in a fertile valley surrounded by three volcanoes—Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango. Over generations, volcanic activity has enriched the soil with minerals that contribute to Antigua’s signature balance and depth. These nutrient-rich soils play a major role in the coffee’s natural sweetness and cocoa-like body.
High Altitude, Slower Growth, Better Flavor
This coffee is grown at elevations ranging from 1,500 to over 1,950 meters above sea level, qualifying it as Strictly Hard Bean (SHB). At these heights, cooler temperatures slow the maturation of the coffee cherry. The result is a denser bean with more concentrated sugars and a refined, well-structured cup.
Antigua is also known for a unique afternoon cloud cover—sometimes called “the cloud blanket.” This natural shade protects the coffee plants from intense sun and further slows ripening, contributing to the coffee’s smooth acidity and rounded mouthfeel.
Washed Process for Clarity and Cleanliness
This lot is fully washed and sun-dried, a traditional process in Guatemala that highlights clarity and elegance in the cup. Washing removes the fruit before drying, allowing the character of the region and varietal to shine through without distraction. The result is a coffee that’s clean, crisp, and beautifully balanced.
Thoughtfully Selected, Carefully Prepared
The EP (European Preparation) designation means the coffee has undergone additional sorting to remove defects. For the drinker, this translates into consistency and clarity—every cup delivering the flavors it promises.
The varietal mix of Bourbon, Caturra, and Catuai brings together sweetness, brightness, and structure, creating a profile that feels both classic and complete.
What You’ll Taste
In the cup, expect a harmonious balance of:
• Cocoa and milk chocolate
• Stone fruit and gentle citrus
• Green tea-like elegance
• Cashew and sugar-cane sweetness
The acidity is bright but soft, the body creamy and full, and the finish clean and lingering.
Why We Love It
Guatemala Antigua coffees are often described as “everyday coffees,” but that undersells their quality. This is the kind of coffee you can enjoy daily—yet still pause mid-sip to notice something new. It’s approachable without being boring, refined without being flashy.
If you’re looking for a coffee that showcases balance, origin character, and timeless flavor, this is one we’re proud to put in your cup this month.