The Dubai coffee auction: El Injerto - Las Milpa

El Injerto: The legacy and innovation of Guatemala’s most celebrated coffee

Few coffee farms in the world have achieved the level of recognition that El Injerto, located in Huehuetenango, Guatemala, has garnered over the years. With an impressive eight Cup of Excellence wins, fourth-generation producer Arturo Aguirre has built upon his family’s legacy to create some of the most exceptional coffees available today. His story is one of deep-rooted tradition, forward-thinking innovation, and an unwavering dedication to quality.

A legacy of coffee excellence

El Injerto wasn’t always a coffee farm. Originally, it produced corn, sugarcane, and tobacco, but it wasn’t until Arturo’s grandfather began planting coffee that its true potential was realized. Now, as a fourth-generation coffee producer, Arturo carries the responsibility of maintaining and elevating that legacy.

His journey into coffee production began over 20 years ago when he returned from college. With a vision to take El Injerto to new heights, he sought to differentiate his farm by focusing on quality over quantity. Rather than just continuing with traditional methods, he introduced a more meticulous approach to processing and lot separation, ensuring each micro-lot showcased its full potential.

The pursuit of unmatched quality

What makes El Injerto coffee stand out? It’s a combination of factors: the farm’s high elevation, ideal microclimate, and exceptional genetics. However, as Arturo emphasizes, the human element is just as crucial. By fostering a team with a culture of curiosity and dedication, El Injerto consistently produces award-winning coffee.

Rather than blindly following trends, Arturo and his team have spent years experimenting with different varieties and processing methods. After a decade of trial and error with anaerobic and other fermentation techniques, they have returned to their roots—perfecting clean, washed coffees that highlight the natural characteristics of each variety. This commitment to excellence ensures consistency and purity in every cup.

A market-driven approach to specialty coffee

Arturo’s approach is not just about making the best coffee but also understanding the market. While El Injerto produces some of the world’s most expensive and exclusive coffees, Arturo recognizes the importance of balance. He likens his strategy to the wine industry—offering ultra-premium lots that gain global recognition while also producing high-quality, accessible coffees that sustain the business.

By participating in auctions and direct trade, El Injerto has cultivated relationships with specialty buyers worldwide. Arturo carefully curates each coffee offering based on the needs of different markets, ensuring that each customer receives a coffee that fits their profile and pricing expectations. This pragmatic approach has helped El Injerto maintain long-term relationships and financial sustainability.

Sustainable practices and the future of El Injerto

One of the biggest challenges in coffee production today is labor availability. Arturo has responded by implementing efficiency-driven changes, including reforesting certain parts of the farm and optimizing workflows to maintain production with a smaller workforce. These efforts not only preserve the land but also ensure that El Injerto remains a thriving business for generations to come.

Additionally, Arturo is deeply invested in the well-being of his team. By providing opportunities for education, professional development, and skill-building—whether in electricity, carpentry, or barista training—he fosters a sense of ownership and pride among his employees, helping to reduce turnover and migration.

A future built on tradition and innovation

Arturo Aguirre’s leadership at El Injerto is a testament to the power of combining tradition with innovation. From meticulously cultivated high-altitude Geisha varieties to thoughtfully structured market strategies, his approach ensures that El Injerto remains a benchmark for quality in the specialty coffee world.

For those seeking to experience the pinnacle of Guatemalan coffee, El Injerto will be featured at the World of Coffee Dubai auction, offering a rare opportunity to acquire these exceptional lots. With a rich history and a clear vision for the future, El Injerto continues to define what is possible in the world of specialty coffee.

The Dubai Coffee Auction by DMCC

Join us for a live event taking place at the World of Coffee Dubai on February 11th and the Global Online Auction event happening on March 13th. Curated by M-Cultivo, this first-of-its-kind event will showcase the world’s top producers.