Elevation: 6,800 feet
Varietals: Bourbon, Caturra
Processing Method: Washed On-Site, Milled in Santa Avelina
Harvest: December - March
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Guatemalan Maya Ixil de Avelina
Cup Characteristics: Sweet floral fragrance, creamy smooth body, soft citrus and fruit notes, consistent, clean and pleasant.
Cooperative Maya Ixil is situated in the mountains of the tropical Ixcan region in the department of Quiche, Guatemala. The fertile valleys, temperate climate and high altitudes have a positive effect on cup quality, but this high quality cup is also a direct result of the technical crop improvements of the Ixil farmers. These farmers are from the surrounding communities of San Juan Cotzal, San Gaspar Chajul and Santa Maria
Nebaj.
Ixil de Avelina evolved out of the necessity to improve coffee prices. In 1998 the group began to organize and succeeded in gaining organic certification. The certification meant not only improving the quality of life for the farmers, but also improving the environment through sustainable agriculture techniques. Maya Ixil's coffee is grown under lush shade trees, preserving native fruits and animal species. Today, more than 125 Quiche families represent the Cooperative and are gaining greater opportunities for business growth and community developments.
Gaspar de la Cruz from Santa Avelina reflects, "Before I became a Cooperative member, I did not know about organic coffee agronomy, but now with the support of Maya Ixil, I have learned and feel very happy because my harvest is selling at a fair price." Each farmer has a small hand de-pulper at their home, drying and de-pulping before bringing their coffee to the new mill set up in Santa Avelina.
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