Introduction and flavor characteristics of El Balsamo-Quezaltepec coffee producing area in El Salvador

El Balsamo-Quezaltepec

Part of the El Balsamo-Quezaltepec coffee garden overlooks the capital San Salvador from the Quetzaltepec volcano. It is 500-1960m above sea level, about south of San Salvador and San Vincent. This area is the site of the pre-Spanish culture Quetzalcotitan civilization, which believes in the feathered serpent god. The various totems of this god are still an important part of Salvadoran culture. The name of the mountain comes from the Peruvian gum produced here, which is a kind of fragrant branch.

■ altitude: 500-1960m

■ production season: October to March

■ varieties: 52% bourbon, 22% Pacas, 26% mixed with other varieties

■ flavor: the coffee in this region has a well-balanced taste, creamy flavor, excellent concentration, vanilla aroma and bright acidity, full of very supple taste.