Notes: Almond, Green Apple, Toffee
Origin: Chimaltenango, Acatenango, Guatemala
Producer: Amenabar Family
Farm: Chalabal Estrella
Process: Washed 
Altitude: 1650-1850 MASL
Variety: Catuai, bourbon, caturra

Founded nearly a century ago, the Chalabal Estrella farm, managed by Alfredo Amenabar, has won the regional Acatenango Best Coffee competition 10 times, in the Chimaltenango department, about fifteen kilometers southwest of Antigua. 

In 1930, Miguel Soto, then a renowned coffee producer in the country, acquired the farm and modernized both the plantation and the mill. In 1976, a devastating earthquake, with its epicenter just 50 km from the farm, destroyed all the facilities. Nydia Soto de Amenabar, Miguel’s daughter, managed to rebuild the farm, and the mill was back in operation two years later. In 1980, the farm was divided into two parts: Nydia’s daughter, Alfredo Amenabar’s mother, inherited the section with the mill, while the upper part became known as “Chalabal Estrella.” The legacy of Chalabal Estrella is preserved by Ricardo Amenabar, Alfredo’s son, who continues the family tradition.

Caturra is a natural mutation of Bourbon discovered in Brazil in the 1930s. Suited to medium to high altitudes (1,200–1,800 m), it offers good yields and a balanced cup characterized by bright acidity, medium body, and notes of citrus or caramel. Catuai is a cross between Mundo Novo and Caturra, developed in Brazil in the 1950s. Available in red and yellow varieties, it combines productivity, compactness, and good wind resistance. Its sensory profile often reveals notes of yellow fruits, honey, and chocolate, especially at higher altitudes. However, its disease resistance remains limited. Bourbon, an old and noble variety, offers excellent aromatic potential. Less compact, it requires more space and careful management. Grown between 1,200 and 2,000 m, notably in Central America and East Africa, it stands out for its sweetness, refined acidity, and floral, fruity, or chocolaty notes. It is a sensitive variety but highly sought after for the finest coffees.