This honey-processed Parainema from Nelin Guzman's farm in Santa Barbara, Honduras represents a breakthrough moment—both for the producer and for anyone who tastes it. After years of collaboration through Cat & Cloud's Best Friends Club direct relationship program, Nelin has refined his honey processing to produce a coffee that stopped cuppers in their tracks. His recent Cup of Excellence recognition confirms what this cup reveals: meticulous fermentation control, perfect drying conditions, and a farmer's dedication to craft.
What makes this coffee remarkable isn't just its accolades—it's the evolution you taste in the cup, the result of a producer experimenting, learning, and pushing his processing further each harvest.
Tasting Notes
The first sip delivers bright, vinous acidity reminiscent of eating wine grapes straight from the vine—tart, sweet, and alive. As the coffee opens up, that initial brightness deepens into rich black cherry, almost burgundy in its intensity. The finish is where the honey process truly shines: a lingering sweetness that coats the palate like wildflower honey, complex and floral. The body is syrupy and full, with a smooth mouthfeel that carries those layered fruit notes from start to finish. Expect medium-high acidity that's structured rather than sharp, and a sweetness that persists long after the cup is empty.
Brew Methods
This coffee excels as pour over, where its clarity and fruit-forward complexity can fully express themselves—try it on a V60 or Kalita Wave to highlight the grape and cherry notes. It's equally stunning as espresso, where the honey process's natural sugars create exceptional body and a finish that lingers beautifully in milk drinks. French press brings out the syrupy texture and deeper cherry tones. Avoid over-extraction; this coffee's brightness can turn sharp if pushed too far.
About Cat & Cloud
Cat & Cloud Coffee, based in Santa Cruz, California, has built their reputation on direct relationships and transparent sourcing through programs like the Best Friends Club, which connects roasters directly with producers like Nelin for multi-year partnerships focused on quality and sustainability.
Not sure about grinder settings or which brewing method to try first? Clive's team can walk you through dialing in this coffee and recommend equipment that'll help you taste every nuanced layer Nelin worked so hard to develop.