STORY

Guatemala Blue Ayarza Natural

We are so excited to have Blue Ayarza natural back in our mugs and on our shelves! Shots are tasting syrupy and sweet with berry notes followed by caramel and raisin. Shots are tasty on their own or can stand up to some milk, if you want a coffee that stands out in a latte try our medium or dark espresso options!

Laguna de Ayarza (Lake Ayarza) is a crater lake in the Santa Rosa department of Guatemala. It is known locally as Laguna Azul (Blue Lake). Lake Ayarza was formed around 20,000 years ago by a volcanic eruption. The lake has a surface area of 14km² and is located at 1,400masl. According to local legend, the true nature of the lake is far more mysterious. Some say it is connected to the ocean, the actual depth is unknown, and that an expedition to find the bottom ended in tragic failure. We do know Lake Ayarza is in a remote location and access is difficult. This means it has remained in pristine condition with only around 10 houses built around its edge.

The finest cherries are delivered by local smallholders in their own trucks first to the Ayarza Cherry Mill for quality verification. Second, the cherries are sent to Amatitlan where the drying conditions are superior. There they spend 10-15 days on the patio drying in the sun. To finish the cherries are mechanically dried to remove the last couple of points of moisture from the beans.