Around this time last year I was first introduced to the coffee of Efrain Salvador Carhuallocllo, who produces his “Corazón” coffee in San Ignacio, Peru. Our roasting partner, Madcap Coffee, had suggested I bring it into the shop, with the promise that I’d be amazed by the vibrancy and character of Corazón. Indeed, Corazón is bursting with tropical notes of ripe pineapple, sweet blackberry jam and a distinct juicy mouthfeel that I’d more often associate with coffees from Ethiopia or Kenya.

It’s no surprise that Corazón was awarded 2nd place in the first ever Peru Cup of Excellence, but until the past few years this remarkable coffee had been blended together with coffees from the surrounding area. The blended coffee was average, and the participating farmers all received the same low price, regardless of the quality they brought to the blend. Since then, Efrain has worked with Madcap to showcase the quality of his coffee and highlight the possibilities in San Ignacio. Corazón is back at Mammoth Espresso for a second year, it remains one of the best coffees I’ve had in recent memory.

The world of coffee is filled with stories like Efrain’s, whose commitment to quality have the ability to command better prices and a promising future for his farm. Since breaking out on his own, Efrain has been assisting other farmers in San Ignacio in producing better coffees and, for the first time, receiving a sustainable profit for their work.

Corazón is available on our menu and in retail bags for a limited time. We’re glad to share this beautiful coffee with you.