Las Brisas, Guatemala (washed) Specialty Coffee

New Oriente, situated as the easternmost coffee-producing region in Guatemala, emerged as a relatively recent addition to the realm of coffee cultivation approximately 70 years ago. Nestled in the Chiquimula department near its borders with Honduras and El Salvador, New Oriente has dedicated substantial efforts to foster the growth of its coffee economy. In the past, coffee cultivation was primarily undertaken by small-scale producers as a supplementary crop alongside others. However, the landscape has transformed over time, now featuring larger farms and improved accessibility facilitated by enhanced road infrastructure.

Characterized by a climate that is rainy, cloudy, and temperate, the New Oriente region is positioned on an inactive volcanic range. The soils retain their richness, boasting a mineral balance with a notable concentration of metamorphic rock. 

In 1990, Marvin acquired his initial parcel of land in this region. Over the ensuing decades, he expanded his property holdings by acquiring various parcels as his business flourished. Throughout the years, Marvin has enhanced farm practices, rejuvenated aging trees, and introduced a shade management system to elevate the overall quality of the farm. Presently, he oversees not only Finca Las Brisas but also operates a wet mill.

Within the wet mill, Marvin is dedicated to ensuring judicious water usage, with a particular focus on meticulous processing of wastewater. In the absence of proper treatment, wastewater poses a risk of contaminating both soil and water sources. Marvin's innovative system incorporates eight wastewater ponds, culminating in the emergence of clean water after the eighth stage of treatment. Additionally, he employs a water pump to recirculate this purified water, contributing to a reduction in overall water consumption at the mill.

 

Marvin aspires to sustain growth and elevate the quality of the coffee produced on his farm. His commitment extends to the incorporation of increasingly organic and sustainable fertilizers, with a continual focus on incremental improvements each year.

According to Marvin, the positive impact of coffee extends beyond his own farm. In addition to cultivating coffee on Las Brisas, he actively engages with the local community by purchasing cherries from neighboring producers and processing it for Primavera. Marvin emphasizes that the coffee industry has not only boosted the income and employment opportunities for local coffee producers but has also catalyzed improvements in community infrastructure. As the local coffee economy expands, Marvin notes tangible enhancements such as improved roads, better schools, and the establishment of a health clinic for the community.