Located just a short drive from the capital, Fraijanes is a coffee growing region originally planted by the Jesuits, who brought the coffee plant to Guatemala. The coffees tend to be aromatically intriguing, and charming in their body and mouthfeel. Julio, who has taken over the family farm, first planted in 1967, has focused on quality in the recent years — and sustainability. The farm is home to more than just coffee, with a large planting of fruit trees, including a large variety of citrus, and a rather impressive beekeeping operation.
This tiny lot is the first we bring in from Julio’s farm, despite the fact that we met and visited for the first time before the pandemic. Típica, more or less the original variety brought to the Americas, has long been beloved for its delicate and aromatic qualities, despite being a bit difficult to grow and low-yielding in today’s environment. This typical is quite classic - subtle notes of citrus, blossoms, and stone fruit come in at first with a sweet honeysuckle type character followed by a honey-wheat and dark chocolate finish. It is at once distinctly Guatemalan, and also quite expressive of the variety. We opted for a light touch on this one - just enough development to capitalize on the body and sweetness whilst maximizing the aromatics.
SAN BERNARDO TÍPICA
FRAIJANES - GUATEMALA
JULIO GANDARA
TíPICA
1385 MASL
DRY DEPULPED, washed, and sun dried on raised beds
