Coopesqui Coffee Co-op - Guatemala
Country: Guatemala
Region: Huehuetenango
Municipality: La Libertad
Altitude/Elevation: 5,000 – 6,000 ft
Grower: Co-op of up to 470 local farmers
Characteristics/Species: Bourbon, Catuaí, Caturra, Pache
Flavor Profile: Rich, bold flavor with a balance of smooth chocolate and bright acidity, influenced by the altitude and microclimates, which produce a complex, well-rounded cup of coffee with deep, fruity undertones and subtle floral notes.
Shop this exceptional coffee and honor the numerous farmers who make it possible with our Huehuetenango coffee from the Coopesqui Co-op.
The Heart of Huehuetenango: A Legacy of Coffee Craftsmanship
Nestled in the rugged highlands of Huehuetenango, Guatemala, the Coopesqui Cooperative is home to dedicated farmers like whose commitment to coffee production spans decades. Founded in 1961, Coopesqui has been working since 1990 to elevate the region's coffee, known for its exceptional Bourbon, Catuaí, Caturra, and Pache varieties. At an altitude of 5,000 to 6,000 feet, these indigenous farmers, part of the Mam and Chuj Mayan groups, work their small plots, where ancient agricultural knowledge and modern sustainability converge.
From Coyote Exploitation to Global Recognition
Historically, small growers in Huehuetenango faced exploitation from coyotes—local buyers who paid subpar prices for high-quality coffee. This left generations of farmers disconnected from the wealth their coffee could bring. But with the creation of Coopesqui, change was on the horizon. The cooperative worked tirelessly to develop sustainable practices, from proper wet milling to learning advanced techniques through the National Coffee Association. Farmers were no longer just growing coffee; they were becoming artisans, perfecting their craft and gaining control over their future.
The Sacred Land of La Libertad
Huehuetenango’s unique terroir is a gift from nature, with its mountainous terrain providing an ideal environment for coffee cultivation. La Libertad, in particular, offers diverse microclimates that nurture rich, full-bodied flavors in the beans. Here, coffee farming is more than just an economic activity; it is a means of preserving a cultural heritage that has endured for centuries. Each harvest tells a story of survival and resilience, and now, thanks to Coopesqui, these stories are reaching markets far beyond Guatemala’s borders.
Collaboration Between Coopesqui and SoZo Coffee
In 2022, SoZo Coffee Roasting began collaborating with Coopesqui to bring the extraordinary flavors of Huehuetenango to Michigan. With Patty at Farm Direct Coffee guiding quality control, and SoZo Coffee’s co-founder Rodney Hensley helping to refine the roasting process, this partnership has flourished. Through trials and tastings, the cooperative’s beans have found their place in Michigan’s coffee scene. Together, SoZo Coffee and Coopesqui have created a model that benefits both the growers and the consumers who savor each cup.
A Future Bright with Promise
With the support of SoZo Coffee Roasting, Coopesqui has been able to improve the livelihoods of over 470 small growers, bringing fair prices to a historically marginalized community. Farmers like Francisco Martinez, who have been in the industry for over 50 years, now see their work recognized globally. The cooperative’s success has not only brought financial stability to its members but has also revitalized the local culture. SoZo Coffee’s involvement ensures that these farmers will continue to thrive, while coffee drinkers can enjoy a product that is both ethically sourced and incredibly flavorful.
Some Highlights and Additional Information
- Coopesqui has expanded from 11 to 470 small local growers since its inception.
- Each small grower benefits from advanced agronomy training, resulting in superior coffee quality.
- The cooperative now manages its own wet and dry mills, giving farmers greater control over their harvests.
- Coopesqui focuses on sustainable practices, preserving natural habitats alongside coffee cultivation.
- This collaboration provides fair wages, community support, and the preservation of indigenous traditions.
Join us in celebrating the journey of this exceptional coffee and the farmers who make it possible with our Huehuetenango coffee.