Don Gerardo Peñalva
Finca Azul Esmeralda — Marcala, La Paz, Honduras
A lifetime dedicated to cultivating some of Honduras' finest specialty coffees. Pioneer of organic methods and champion of the Gesha variety.
Region
Marcala, La Paz
Altitude
1,500 – 1,600 MASL
Varieties
Gesha, Bourbon, Catuaí, Icatu, Típica
Processing
Natural, Washed, Honey
Certification
Organic (COMSA)
Cup Score
90+
Golden Cup Award — 1st Place 2024
Finca Azul Esmeralda won first place in the 2024 Golden Cup award for their Gesha variety, competing against producers across Latin America. This prestigious recognition highlights the exceptional quality and care that goes into every lot.
Roots in Organic Agriculture
In 2002, the farm began experimenting with new coffee varieties such as Catuaí and Icatu, while continuing to cultivate the existing Bourbon and Típica varieties. With support from COMSA, the farm transitioned fully to organic agriculture.
At altitudes of 1,500 to 1,600 meters above sea level in the Marcala region of La Paz, Honduras, the farm benefits from ideal growing conditions — cool temperatures, rich volcanic soil, and morning mist that nurtures each coffee plant.
Mastering the Craft of Processing
Through years of experience, the farm has developed the expertise to process coffee on-site with facilities including a drying patio and solar dryers. Natural, washed, and honey processes are all employed depending on the variety and desired profile.
This meticulous attention to processing has enabled Don Gerardo to achieve cupping scores of up to 90 points — a testament to the quality that emerges when tradition meets precision.
Life at Finca Azul Esmeralda
Taste Don Gerardo's Coffee
Request a sample of our Golden Cup-winning Gesha or explore other varieties from Finca Azul Esmeralda.
Request a Sample