Max Perez, a fifth-generation coffee farmer from Huehuetenango, and his wife, Claudia, are the embodiment of resourcefulness and vision. In 2010, they left law school to start Finca La Hermosa on abandoned land with no water or electricity, raising two children while building their operation from the ground up. From the start, they’ve prioritized long-term sustainability, investing in renovation and infrastructure to responsibly scale for future generations. 

What began as resourcefulness has evolved into a deep appreciation for what they have, and a commitment to sustaining their community and their land. Even amid volatile markets, rising costs of organic inputs, and labor shortages, Max and Claudia remain committed to sustainable practices and express gratitude to those who have contributed to their farm’s success. Their dedication has been rewarded: the farm is renowned for producing superb coffees, including several Cup of Excellence winners. Today, the farm boasts a wet mill, poultry coops, a family home, as well as a cupping lab partially funded by our Seeds program. 

We first experienced coffee from Finca La Hermosa in late 2022 through importing partner Ryan Chipman of Collaborative Origins Imports. Inspired by Max and Claudia’s values, Ryan introduced us, and we quickly saw the potential for a meaningful partnership. We have steadily increased our purchasing volume each year. While most of the coffee we buy from Finca La Hermosa anchors year-round products such as Fast Forward and Big Trouble, the farm has much more to offer: delicious coffee varieties like Pink Bourbon and an entire “Gesha Forest,” along with a multitude of processing techniques.