Jandy Morales - Guatemala
Country: Guatemala
Department: Chiquimula
Municipality: Monteros Village, Esquipulas
Altitude/Elevation: 4,500 – 4,800 ft
Characteristics/Species: Bourbon, Red Pache, Caturra
Flavor Profile: Chocolatey base with complex layers of richness
Jandy's coffee is available as our single origin Olopa
Also one of two distinct coffees featured in Funky Monkey and Kelly's Breakfast Blend
Jandy isn’t just a farmer - he’s a man on a mission.
Born in 1977 in Esquipulas, Jandy’s journey into coffee farming didn’t follow a traditional path. At 18, he purchased his first plot of land, a patch of soil nestled in Monteros, a small, tight-knit village near the border of Honduras. While many around him chose to leave the region in search of opportunities, Jandy dug his heels in and embraced the challenging terrain of coffee farming. He’s a man who understands both the heartache and the beauty of the land he calls home.
Jandy’s story is one of grit, passion, and family.
What began as a struggle to break free from the exploitative clutches of local coffee "coyotes" evolved into an inspiring tale of resilience. Over the years, Jandy organized his community, creating a cooperative that not only sustained them but elevated their coffee to a standard recognized far beyond the borders of Guatemala. His work, done alongside his wife Ideny and their growing family, has turned his farm into a beacon of hope and sustainability for his village.
Jandy’s farm, nestled high in the mountains, benefits from the perfect altitude and microclimate that makes for an exquisite cup. His coffee has a chocolatey base with a complexity that leaves you coming back for another sip. But what sets it apart is Jandy’s hands-on approach with his high-quality strictly hard bean (SHB) coffee, known for its vibrant flavors. He employs natural farming techniques, uses organic fertilizers, and believes in the slow, painstaking process of creating something genuinely exceptional.
Every cup tells his story.
Monteros Village is a place where the sun kisses the land with warmth, and the cool mountain breezes offer reprieve. Its warm temperate climate creates ideal conditions for growing world-class coffee. Yet, this picturesque backdrop belies a history of struggle. Climate changes, fungus outbreaks, and economic hardship have driven many to leave this fertile region. But not Jandy. His farm, perched on the lush slopes of Chiquimula, is where tradition meets innovation, producing coffee with depth and character that mirrors the resilience of its people.
When SoZo Coffee Roasting founder Rodney Hensley first met Jandy, the connection was instant. Both shared a vision to bring the best of Guatemalan coffee to the world while enriching the lives of those who cultivate it. Through this partnership, SoZo Coffee has helped Jandy elevate his production methods, ensuring each harvest maintains its exceptional quality. For Jandy, the relationship has opened doors, allowing him to bypass exploitative middlemen and bring his coffee directly to appreciative roasters like Rodney. This direct trade relationship not only ensures fair prices but also fosters mutual growth and learning.
Jandy’s farm now employs over 100 people during harvest, impacting more than 50 families in Monteros and neighboring communities. SoZo Coffee’s involvement has helped fund local agronomists, who’ve taught Jandy how to tackle threats like coffee rust (Roya). Together, they’ve built a farm that’s resilient, sustainable, and productive—ensuring that Jandy’s coffee will continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.
Some Highlights and additional information
- Jandy’s dedication to his community and coffee production has made him a leader in the region.
- SoZo Coffee has played a key role in helping Jandy upgrade his farming practices, ensuring a sustainable future for his coffee.
- Jandy's coffee is a crucial component of SoZo Coffee’s Funky Monkey blend, adding rich chocolate notes to the cup.
- The partnership with SoZo Coffee has allowed Jandy to bypass local middlemen, securing fair wages for his work.
- Jandy’s farm supports over 100 workers during the harvest, impacting dozens of local families.
- His efforts have transformed Monteros from a struggling community to one that is beginning to thrive, thanks to sustainable farming and fair trade partnerships.
Jandy’s journey from a single coffee plot to a thriving farm is a testament to what’s possible when passion, resilience, and partnership come together. His coffee is more than a product; it’s a symbol of hope and hard-earned success.