Antigua is one of the famous coffee-growing regions in Guatemala. The presence of three volcanoes, Acatenango, Agua, and Fuego, is credited for its unique microclimate. The nutrient-dense and porous volcanic soil is conducive to the healthy growth of coffee trees in the area. At 1400 to 1800 masl, Finca La Laguna also benefits from cooler temperatures that make the coffee cherries denser and more complex.
Adolfo Hernandez has been producing good quality coffee at Finca La Laguna since 1995, owing to the natural environment and his deep-rooted experience in cultivation and processing. Taking after his father and with an eye on the farm’s future, Adolfito Hernandez Jr. has become more involved in operations. In addition, he has been working to diversify towards honey and natural processing when the norm has always been washed.
The Exporter:
Raul Rodas, founder of Paradigma Coffee Trading and the roastery Paradigma Coffee, is a four-time Guatemala National Barista Champion and the World Barista Champion in 2012.
The span and scope of his coffee journey have given him a thorough understanding of what must be done at key points in the specialty coffee value chain to create a remarkable experience for the consumer to enjoy their cup. He has also established relationships with meticulous and forward-thinking producers across the known and upcoming coffee-growing regions in the country.