Nestled in the verdant hills of Cobán, Guatemala, at 1,500 meters above sea level, Finca San Lorenzo is a family-run coffee estate renowned for its exceptional quality. Acquired by the Valdés family in 1987, this 110-hectare farm, alongside its sister estate Finca Santa Isabel, produces outstanding Caturra, Catuaí, and Sarchimor varieties. The family’s dedication to quality has earned their coffee a place in Guatemala’s Cup of Excellence twice, reflecting their innovative cultivation and meticulous processing techniques. From selective harvesting across 10 passes to separate processing at the Santa Isabel wet mill, every step ensures a rich, flavorful cup.
The Valdés family, with generations of coffee expertise, blends tradition with sustainability. Led by Don Luis Valdés and his son Luis “Wicho” Valdés, an agronomist, the family has developed a unique pruning schedule over 15 years to combat coffee leaf rust, reducing chemical use by up to 50%. They also incorporate lombricompost, cutting fertilizer use by over 15%, while employing 40 permanent and up to 500 seasonal workers who return annually for the harvest. This commitment to quality and community creates a coffee that embodies both heritage and innovation.
Beyond coffee, Finca San Lorenzo champions environmental stewardship. Thirty hectares are dedicated to forest conservation, preserving local wildlife and providing sustainable lumber. Facing threats from a pine-destroying fly, the family is transitioning to native trees like cedar and liquidambar to restore a resilient, biodiverse ecosystem. By balancing tradition, innovation, and conservation, the Valdés family crafts a coffee that not only delights the palate but also supports a sustainable future.
