Cafe Norte is a micro-mill dedicated to processing high-end specialty coffees in Northern El Salvador's Alotepac-Metapan region. This lot is sourced from 3 farms in Chalataenango, Fincas Machuca and La Hondurita are owned by the Diaz brothers, whilst Finca San Andreas belongs to Fredy Recinos.
Coffee production in these northern mountains of Chalatenango is relatively new. The micro-region where these farms are situated is extremely difficult to access, especially in the rainy season when already challenging roads become perilous to drive along. Nevertheless the mountainous terrain and microclimate of the region is highly suited to the production of high quality arabica.
Origin
El Salvador
Subregion
Chalatenango, Alotepac-Metapan
Harvest Season
2022/23
Producer Type
Single Estate
Farm Name
Fincas Machuca, La Hondurita and San Andres
Dry Mill
Cafe Norte
Processing
Honey Processed
Growing Altitude
1550m - 1600m
Plant Species
Arabica
Variety
Pacas
Coffee Grade
SLV CA WA MIC
Screen Size
15 Up
Bag Weight
69 KG BAG
Bag Types
Grain Pro / Ecotact
The Art of Production
This honey processed Pacas lot is dried very slowly on raised beds for 30-38 days.
History of Coffee in El Salvador
Coffee was first introduced to El Salvador from the Caribbean as a garden crop in the mid-18th century but did not gain a commercial production foothold until 1850’s because indigo, easier to grow and more profitable, was king. Coffee was first exported—695 bags—in 1856 and the government began to encourage coffee farming. Exponential growth coincided with the development of synthetic indigo near the end of the century. At one time, El Salvador was one of the largest producers of commercial coffees. Today, with a focus on quality over quantity, 70% of coffee from El Salvador sells for a premium above commodity prices.
SubregionChalatenango, Alotepac-Metapan
Farm NameFincas Machuca, La Hondurita and San Andres
