Cerro Las Ranas

Cerro Las Ranas, which translates to 'Hill of Frogs,' derives its name from a lagoon located on the property that is home to a large population of frogs. The farm is situated in the Apaneca region within the department of Ahuachapán, El Salvador, an area renowned for its high-quality coffee production. The estate benefits from volcanic loam soil and grows coffee at elevations ranging from 1,450 to 1,780 meters above sea level, providing the ideal conditions for cultivating high-density, flavorful beans.

The coffee produced at Cerro Las Ranas is managed by JASAL, a family-owned operation led by Jose Antonio Salaverria and his sons. The family is widely recognized in the industry for their rigorous attention to detail, overseeing every stage of production from year-round farm management to final quality control in their own cupping laboratory. This hands-on approach ensures consistency and excellence across their various lots.

Cerro Las Ranas is particularly noted for its expertise in the honey process, also referred to as pulped natural. In this method, the outer skin of the coffee cherry is removed, but the sticky mucilage is left intact on the bean during the drying phase. The JASAL team dries these beans on clay patios and elevated tables, constantly turning them to ensure even moisture loss. This process is instrumental in developing the deep sweetness and complex flavor profiles often associated with their harvests.

The farm cultivates a diverse range of Arabica varieties, including Bourbon, Pacamara, Sarchimor, Pacas, Catuai, and Caturra. This variety selection allows the farm to adapt to different micro-climates and disease pressures, such as coffee leaf rust, which remains a significant challenge for producers in El Salvador. By maintaining such a broad genetic base, the farm balances traditional quality with agricultural resilience.

In the specialty coffee market, Cerro Las Ranas has earned significant acclaim. For instance, a honey-processed espresso from the farm was ranked as the No. 25 coffee on Coffee Review’s list of the Top 30 Coffees of 2019. Tasting notes for these coffees frequently highlight complex characteristics such as pomegranate, dark chocolate, jasmine, and tropical fruits, supported by a plush mouthfeel and a clean, sweet finish.

For roasters and consumers, the Cerro Las Ranas tag represents a commitment to traceability and high-standard processing. Because the JASAL family manages the entire supply chain—from the farm gate to the final export preparation—the coffee serves as a benchmark for what is possible in Salvadoran specialty coffee. It remains a sought-after origin for roasters looking to showcase the potential of honey-processed Central American coffees.