The Farms
The Lucia Blend is a tribute to two remarkable growers and the lands they steward—Claudia Vanessa Rivera in Nicaragua and Jaqueline and Renardo Ovalle in Guatemala.
From the cloud forests of Jinotega, Nicaragua, Claudia cultivates Caturra and Catuai on her 40-hectare farm, La Virgen Estate. Founded in 2012 with a vision of environmental care and community uplift, Claudia oversees every step of production—from harvest to milling—with exacting standards. Her work has transformed a remote region into a source of opportunity and exceptional coffee.
In the pine-covered highlands of Huehuetenango, Guatemala, Renardo planted Los Pinos in 2013 across plots soaring above 2,000 meters. With volcanic soil and a rare microclimate, he produces vibrant coffees using innovative methods like anaerobic washing. As part of the Vides 58 family legacy, Renardo and his wife Jaqueline continue to push boundaries in flavor and sustainability as the third generation of leadership for this family business.
Lucia brings these two origins together—balancing Claudia’s clarity and craftsmanship with Renardo’s tropical sweetness and altitude-driven complexity. It’s a blend born of intention, elevation, and the quiet power of growers who lead with heart.
Culture and History of Coffee
Coffee is more than a crop in Nicaragua and Guatemala—it’s a cultural cornerstone and a vital economic force. Both countries have rich histories of coffee cultivation, shaped by volcanic soil, high altitudes, and generations of small-scale farmers.
Nicaragua
Coffee arrived in the early 1800s and quickly became one of the country’s most important exports. Today, it supports over 40,000 farming families, many of whom rely on coffee for their livelihoods. Nicaraguan beans are known for their smooth, balanced flavor with notes of cocoa, nuts, and subtle fruit.
Guatemala
With elevations reaching up to 2,000 meters, Guatemala produces some of the most sought-after coffees in the world. Regions like Antigua and Huehuetenango are celebrated for their bright acidity, floral aromatics, and layered complexity. Coffee is the country’s second-largest agricultural export and a key source of rural employment.
Both origins reflect a deep commitment to quality, tradition, and sustainability. Lucia honors this legacy—sourced exclusively from women-led farms and roasted to highlight the clarity and character that Central American coffees are known for.
Lucia
Crafted with purpose and precision, our Lucia Blend is a light roast that celebrates the vibrant character of Central American coffee and the women who grow it. Sourced exclusively from women-owned farms in Nicaragua and Guatemala, these washed beans are roasted in small batches by our female roasting partner in Seattle.
Flavor Profile:
• Bright and lively with modest acidity
• Balanced body and a smooth, clean finish
• Versatile enough for both espresso and drip brewing
Origin & Ethos:
• 100% Arabica beans from women-led farms
• Nicaragua (40%): known for a balanced profile, cocoa notes and gentle sweetness
• Guatemala (60%): brings floral brightness and crisp acidity
Craft & Purpose:
• Roasted locally to assure freshness
• Crafted from select farms for optimal flavor and consistency
Whether you're pulling a shot or brewing a morning pour-over, this blend delivers clarity, character, and a quiet nod to the hands that made it possible.