Description

Country: Honduras
Variety: Obata, Parainema
Process: Natural
Altitude: 1,200 –1,600 masl
Notes: Milk Chocolate, Strawberry, Jammy, Orange
Usage Preference: Milk Base Drinks, Espresso Drinks

CAFESMO Co-op Overview

CAFESMO (Cafés Especiales Mercedes Ocotepeque) is a cooperative consisting of over 280 smallholder farmers located in the southern region of Honduras, near the country’s borders with Guatemala and El Salvador. This co-op plays a pivotal role in the region’s coffee industry, bringing together farmers who are passionate about producing high-quality, sustainable coffee.

Member Farms:

CAFESMO’s member farms are typically small in size, ranging between 2 to 12 hectares each. These farms are spread across a vast area in the hills surrounding Mercedes, benefiting from an array of unique geographical and environmental advantages that contribute to exceptional coffee production. The cooperative’s farms are positioned at elevations of 1200–1600 meters above sea level, an altitude range that is ideal for growing high-quality Arabica coffee. The cooler temperatures and slower maturation of coffee cherries at these heights enhance the flavor profile of the beans, creating coffees with bright acidity, complex aromas, and rich body.

Commitment to Sustainability:

CAFESMO is not only focused on producing great coffee but is also deeply committed to sustainability. The cooperative promotes environmentally friendly farming practices, such as the preservation of surrounding ecosystems and the use of organic methods whenever possible. By protecting the natural habitats in the region, including the forests of Guisayote National Reserve, the co-op helps maintain biodiversity while ensuring that the farms remain productive for future generations.

Community and Collaboration:

As a cooperative, CAFESMO fosters a strong sense of community and collaboration among its members. The co-op provides education and technical support to farmers, empowering them to improve the quality of their coffee while adhering to sustainable farming practices. This cooperative model also ensures that farmers have greater control over their product, leading to better pricing and market access for their coffee.

CAFESMO’s strategic location, combined with its commitment to sustainable farming and community development, makes it a key player in Honduras’ specialty coffee scene. Coffee from this region is known for its clean, vibrant flavors, often showcasing bright acidity, fruity sweetness, and a balanced body—traits that reflect the unique terroir of the Mercedes area.