Honduras washed Arabica SHG EP, Flor Azul

Honduras may be small in size, but it has a lot to offer as Central America’s largest coffee producer. Nestled in the heart of the region, this vibrant country boasts stunning natural beauty—from rugged mountains to vast forests and wildlife-rich jungles. It's no wonder some call Honduras the “green lung” of Central America.

Montecillos is one of the six official coffee producing regions in Honduras, and without a doubt, a very special one. Located along the Salvadoran border in the southwest of the country, Montecillos has ideal weather conditions and high altitudes for the growth of specialty coffee. As a result of this region's quality, Montecillos has gained worldwide recognition and is home to Honduras' first origin designation: Café de Marcala.

Flor Azul is a special selection from Marcala, located in the department of La Paz. It is produced by small and medium-sized farmers who are part of MARCAFE, an association of around 660 producers cultivating coffee on the slopes of the Montecillos Sierra. All members of MARCAFE follow environmentally conscious agricultural practices—enriching soils with organic matter, protecting forests, and conserving water resources.

Together, MARCAFE producers grow coffee across approximately 70 hectares, with varieties including Catuai, Pacas, Pache, Icatu, and Bourbon. During the harvest, farmers deliver ripe cherry to the wet mill, where it is fermented, washed, and dried. Drying begins on patios at up to 40% moisture, followed by a 10–12 hour resting phase, and continues for 6–8 days until optimal moisture levels of 10.5%–12% are reached—ensuring even drying and preserving bean quality.