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How to Source Organic Coffee From El Salvador
Coffee enthusiasts know that sipping on their morning brew is more than a daily ritual: it’s an opportunity to explore and experience each region where their beverage came from, while supporting dedicated farmers behind each bean variety. From Santa Ana coffees with bold flavor profiles and earthy undertones to Apaneca-Ilamatepec’s delicate fruity notes and unique cultural flair, each variety reveals something of El Salvador’s culture and heritage.
Dutriz family coffee farms can serve as an example. Their coffee farms can be found within the Apaneca-Ilamatepec UNESCO Biosphere Reserve at an altitude of 3051 feet, providing oxygen and water for native wildlife while at the same time using an all-natural drying process, conserving resources while protecting each bean’s unique flavors.
These farmers use sustainable farming practices like shade grown cultivation, water conservation and using organic fertilizers to maintain soil quality. Furthermore, they’ve made giving back a priority; through their Jacaranda Farm they help support an adjacent school for grades 1-6 which provides education to 540 students, as well as subsidizing the cost of installing water tanks so their neighbors have independence and can grow high-quality crops more freely.
El Salvador has produced some of the world’s finest gourmet single-origin coffee in recent years. As its political climate improves and more small farmers gain access to specialty roasters, this country is now emerging as an integral player on the global coffee market.
El Salvadoran coffees tend to be milder and contain less acidity than many of their Central American counterparts, yet are highly versatile enough for espresso and pour-over brewing.
El Salvador uses four main coffee varietals for its coffee production: Pacamara, Bourbon/Tekisic/Maragogipe/Catimor. Each has their own distinct qualities while sharing one characteristic – that being an enjoyable cup of java!
For optimal tasting experience of each varietal, ensure your cup is freshly roasted by an established coffee roaster and served hot. This will guarantee an outstanding cup of coffee that showcases each farm’s true character and flavor profile. Also be sure to explore all available brewing methods – be it an espresso machine, French press or Chemex! It is key that the correct grind size be selected so your coffee beans can absorb and release their unique characteristics.