Espresso Workshop El Salvador Monte Sion

Roast Level: Medium (for espresso)
Origin: Apaneca Mountain Range, El Salvador
Tasting Notes: Macadamia, Milk Chocolate, Peach
Varietal: Bourbon
Process: Washed
Altitude: 1250 - 1400 m.a.s.l

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Farm: Monte Sion Estate

Café Montesión is a family-owned coffee producer based in the heart of El Salvador's Apaneca Mountain Range. Established in 1907, the company has grown through three generations, maintaining a deep commitment to producing high-quality coffee while prioritizing environmental sustainability and social responsibility. Specializing in the Arabica-Bourbon variety, the farm's six estates—Monte Sion, Manantiales, Cielito Lindo, Shekinah, Florencia, and Shalom—are spread across this biodiverse region, recognized for its fine coffee production. The company began exporting its beans in 2002, reaching markets in Japan, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand under the brand name "Monte Sion."

The coffee is grown in rich volcanic soil and shade-grown. The farms are located within the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor, which serves as a sanctuary for Neotropical migrant birds that fly to the tropics to escape colder climates. By promoting shade-grown coffee and preserving the surrounding biodiversity, Café Montesión maintains a balance between high-quality coffee production and environmental stewardship.

The farm's commitment to quality is reflected in its meticulous processing methods. Coffee cherries are handpicked at the peak of ripeness and sent to the mill the same day, ensuring the beans maintain their exceptional cup quality. The beans are then sun-dried on a combination of patios and African beds, carefully moved and monitored to ensure uniform drying.

In addition to its focus on high-quality coffee, Café Montesión is deeply dedicated to social responsibility. Through its nonprofit organization, Fundacion Monte Sión Nuevo Amanecer, the company provides healthcare services to its workers and their families, including free medical campaigns with specialist doctors, vitamins, and nutritional support. Workers' homes are built with bricks instead of mud to improve living conditions and reduce health risks, and solar panels are installed where electricity is unavailable. The company also offers educational opportunities, such as scholarships for technical degrees and leadership training programs, ensuring long-term growth for both the community and the company. With its unwavering commitment to quality, sustainability, and social welfare, Café Montesión represents the best of El Salvador's coffee heritage.

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