Los Milagros unites hundreds of dedicated coffee producers, fostering sustainability and community through innovative farming practices and exceptional coffee quality.

Our previous experience with Mexico was limited to what we’d seen on TV: dusty deserts, tumbleweeds, and the occasional cartel drama. So, when we touched down in Tapachula, in the southernmost part of Mexico, it felt like stepping into a whole new world. This region, bordering Guatemala and cradled by the Sierra Madre de Chiapas mountains, is lush, green, and absolutely teeming with life. It’s here, amidst the clouds and coffee trees, that the incredible producers behind Los Milagros are making their mark.

We were welcomed by Marisabel and Edy, two of the many passionate individuals we had the pleasure of meeting. Mari, with her infectious smile and boundless energy, handles marketing, effortlessly bridging the gap between farmers and the global coffee community. Edy, the towering head of the PECA team, is a master agronomist who, along with his team, works tirelessly to help producers achieve their best possible harvests.

Our journey took us along winding mountain roads into the Motozintla valley, where we met Ramiro, the warehouse manager. Quiet and unassuming until you get him cupping coffee – then he transforms into an authority on the subject, demonstrating his expertise with every slurp. We tasted a table filled with single lots from the region, each contributing to the Los Milagros coffee we feature at Commonfolk. The care and dedication put into every cup was evident.

Later, we visited Daniel, a young producer committed to perfecting his craft. His home is more of a coffee farm than a house, with every available surface covered in drying beans. Edy demonstrated a technique for checking fermentation, using a wooden rod to gauge the coffee’s readiness. It was a fascinating glimpse into the depth of knowledge and attention to detail that goes into producing these exceptional coffees.

From the high altitudes of Siltepec to the bustling streets of Mexico City and finally to the sprawling Caravela site in Oaxaca, the trip was a revelation. We met Fernando, a softly spoken Colombian who’s been with Caravela since day one. His quiet expertise and passion for quality shone through during the cupping session that followed. Mexico, with its diverse landscapes and dedicated producers, shattered all our preconceptions. It’s a country brimming with potential and a true contender in the world of speciality coffee.

Our partnership with the producers behind Los Milagros is about much more than just coffee. It’s about supporting a community and a region often overlooked in the speciality coffee world. Caravela’s model ensures that fully dried, ready-for-export parchment is purchased directly from each producer. The PECA team, led by Edy, plays a crucial role in this process. They collect samples, evaluate quality, and provide real-time feedback to the farmers. This feedback loop empowers producers with the knowledge they need to continuously improve, whether it’s experimenting with a longer fermentation or adjusting drying times based on the specific conditions of their farms.

Producers like Daniel are at the heart of this initiative. His commitment to innovation and quality is evident in every step of his process. From meticulously drying coffee on every available surface around his home to experimenting with varietals that thrive in the region’s unique conditions, Daniel embodies the spirit of progress. And it’s not just about producing great coffee; it’s about creating a sustainable future for his community.

At the warehouse in Motozintla, Ramiro and the quality team ensure that every lot meets Caravela’s rigorous standards. The Caravela Atlas system is a game-changer, offering unparalleled traceability. Each producer has access to detailed information about their coffee: scores, moisture readings, and more. This transparency is key to building trust and ensuring that the hard work of each farmer is recognised and rewarded.

Further north in Oaxaca, Fernando oversees operations with a calm precision. His role is critical in expanding Caravela’s reach and maintaining the quality of every lot that passes through the mill. The facility itself is a hub of activity, a place where dedication to quality is palpable.

Mexico’s coffee landscape is as diverse as its geography, with each region offering something unique. By investing in these producers and their communities, we’re not just buying coffee; we’re building a future where Mexico stands shoulder to shoulder with coffee powerhouses like Brazil and Colombia. It’s about more than just great coffee – it’s about the impact we can have together.