The LaurelxEduCAFÉ project was conceived in the mountains of Peña Blanca, Honduras, by Giovanni Lauretta of EduCafé and Naun Fernández, a renowned producer from the region. This project was conceived on Naun's farm when the two young entrepreneurs were discussing the possibility of giving visibility to small producers in the area. The project aims to shine a light on the producers' efforts to produce high-quality micro-lots. The name Laurel comes from a native plant in the area that symbolizes triumph and perseverance.
The coffee we share today is the fruit of the efforts of producers Antonio Sabillón and Evin Gomez. This team demonstrates the virtues of experience and effort, showing how two generations of coffee growers collaborate to share 483 kilos of coffee. This lot, G1 from the Laurel project, is grown at an average altitude of 1,450 meters above sea level, where ideal soil, climate, and biodiversity conditions combine to produce a unique flavor profile. The varieties from both farms are 100% Parainema, grown on farms of 0.35 hectares and 1 hectare. This lot from LaurelXEduCafe is a Honey Process coffee, with an approach that balances sweetness and acidity, giving us notes such as blueberry, lime, almond, and toffee, offering a smooth texture and a medium body that makes it ideal for any preparation method.
With a tasting score of 86, Laurel is an outstanding example of the quality that can be achieved through collaboration and innovation. Furthermore, producers participating in the Laurel Project receive technical support and above-market prices, thanks to the direct sales led by Naun Fernandez and Giovann Lauretta, which contributes to and fosters the sustainable growth of the estates.
The Honey Method used to process this coffee involves careful control during the drying of the cherries, which retain a layer of mucilage around the bean. This process provides this coffee with an increase in the coffee's natural sweetness, highlights its body, and maintains its citric acidity, offering an ideal profile for Omni roasts, which highlight the complexities of the bean in various preparations. This project brings together seven small producers, resulting in 34 bags of honey-processed coffee.
Beyond the cup, Laurel demonstrates how the union of small producers can generate a positive impact in their communities, offering opportunities to new generations and preserving coffee-growing traditions in Honduras. This coffee not only carries an exceptional flavor, but also the history of work, resilience, and pride of the families who grow it.
