For the third consecutive year, Cat & Cloud returns with an exceptional coffee from La Familia Vasquez in Guatemala's renowned Antigua region. This isn't just another Central American offering—it's a multi-generational story of dedication and craft, where Juan Vasquez carries forward his family's coffee legacy with the same care his parents once showed. Working with the Bella Vista Mill's year-round agronomist support program, the Vasquez family has refined their cultivation practices to produce a coffee that defies typical Antigua expectations.
Tasting Notes
This lot opens with an immediate burst of fresh mango—bright, tropical, and inviting. As it develops on the palate, the coffee shifts into pointed cranberry acidity with distinct red-toned dried fruit character. What sets this apart is the unexpected complexity: a layered foundation of black tea tannins blended with creamy milk tea sweetness that carries through the medium body. The finish is clean yet lingering, with that creamy texture balancing the vibrant fruit notes. It's more nuanced than the chocolate-forward profiles Antigua is often known for, offering a sophisticated interplay between brightness and roundness.
Brew Methods
This coffee excels across multiple brewing methods. As pour over (V60, Kalita Wave), it showcases its full complexity—the mango and cranberry notes shine while the tea-like body provides elegant structure. For those who prefer immersion brewing, French press or AeroPress brings forward the creamy milk tea character and softens the acidity into something approachable yet still interesting. While not specifically roasted for espresso, adventurous home baristas will find it pulls a fruit-forward shot with tea-like sweetness when dialed in properly.
About Cat & Cloud
Cat & Cloud, based in Santa Cruz, California, has built a reputation for sourcing thoughtful, story-driven coffees and roasting them to highlight origin character. Their multi-year relationship with Familia Vasquez reflects their commitment to supporting producers through consistent purchasing partnerships.
Not sure which grind setting or brew ratio to start with? Clive's coffee team is here to help you dial in this expressive Guatemalan coffee and recommend equipment that'll bring out its best qualities.