Guatemala SHB EP Huehuetenango Unroasted Coffee Beans 1kg

Guatemalan SHB EP Huehuetenango coffee is a prized coffee variety from the Huehuetenango region of Guatemala, renowned for producing some of the most distinctive and high-quality coffees in the world. This coffee is celebrated for its vibrant flavor profile, complexity, and unique characteristics influenced by the region's geography and climate.

Key Characteristics:

1. Flavor Profile:

   • Bright and Fruity: Huehuetenango coffee is known for its bright acidity and fruity notes, often reminiscent of citrus, apple, or berry.
   • Sweet and Nutty: Complementary flavors of caramel, chocolate, and hazelnut provide a delightful sweetness and balance.
   • Floral Undertones: Subtle hints of jasmine or honeysuckle may also be present, adding a delicate aromatic layer.

2. Body:

   • Medium to full body with a smooth and velvety mouthfeel, creating a rich and satisfying cup.

3. Grade and Classification:

   • SHB (Strictly Hard Bean): Indicates the coffee is grown at high altitudes of 1,200–2,000 meters, where cooler temperatures lead to slower bean maturation and concentrated flavors.
   • EP (European Preparation): Refers to the meticulous hand-sorting process that ensures only the highest quality beans, free from defects.

4. Growing Region:

   • Huehuetenango: This region lies in the western highlands of Guatemala near the Cuchumatanes Mountains. Its high altitude, dry climate, and mineral-rich volcanic soil create ideal conditions for growing exceptional coffee.
   • The region's protection from frost by warm winds from Mexico’s Tehuantepec plain allows for coffee cultivation at some of the highest elevations in Guatemala.

5. Processing Method:

   • Predominantly washed (wet) processed, which highlights the coffee’s bright acidity and clean, crisp flavors.

6. Roast Profile:

   • Light Roast: Highlights the coffee’s bright acidity, fruity notes, and floral complexity.
   • Medium Roast: Balances acidity and sweetness, emphasizing chocolate and caramel tones while retaining fruitiness.
   • Dark Roast: Muted acidity with enhanced body and deep chocolatey flavors, though care must be taken not to overpower the coffee's natural characteristics.

Ideal Uses:

• Pour-Over: Perfect for single-origin brewing methods like Chemex or V60 to appreciate its complex flavor profile.
• Espresso: Provides a bright and lively shot with layers of sweetness and fruitiness.
• French Press: Enhances its full body and brings out its rich, chocolatey notes.

Fun Fact:

The remote Huehuetenango region requires most coffee to be transported by mule or truck from the mountains, making the production process labor-intensive. However, this effort results in some of the most sought-after coffees globally.

Guatemalan SHB EP Huehuetenango coffee is an exceptional choice for those seeking a bright, fruity, and balanced cup with a touch of sweetness and a velvety texture. Its complexity and high quality make it a favorite among specialty coffee enthusiasts.