Guatemala - Rodolfo & Reina

La Pila is an extraordinary coffee grown in the Fraijanes region of Guatemala, where Rodolfo Garcia and Reina Isabela Alvares Barrera carefully cultivate and process their coffee on their 2-hectare farm. Rodolfo has been dedicated to coffee his entire life, beginning as a young coffee picker before inheriting his first plot of land at 25 years old. Over the years, he has expanded his farm, continually refining his practices to enhance both quality and sustainability.

Nestled at 1,700 to 1,750 meters, the farm’s high elevation contributes to the coffee’s bright acidity and rich complexity. The couple exclusively cultivates Pacamara, a variety known for its large bean size and intense flavor profile. Using the natural processing method, the cherries are carefully dried with the fruit intact, allowing the beans to absorb deep, fruity sweetness.

The farm’s name, “La Pila”, comes from a small cement water tank Rodolfo built after discovering a rare water source on his land. In a region where water is scarce, this feature became not just an essential resource but also a defining symbol of his farm. Rodolfo’s dedication to innovation is evident in his creative approaches to coffee production—including a unique bicycle-powered depulping system. Always eager to learn, he plans to conduct a soil analysis to further optimize his plants’ nutrition and improve sustainability.

Tasting Notes:

A rich and full-bodied coffee with lush red fruit and tropical sweetness, layered with notes of dark chocolate and floral undertones. The natural processing method enhances its juicy complexity, creating a distinctive and memorable cup that showcases the craftsmanship of La Pila.