Givette Perez and Ernesto Perez

Finca Fatima is a cornerstone of coffee production in Coatepec, Veracruz, a region historically significant as the site where Arabica coffee was first introduced to Mexico. The farm has remained in the family for nearly a century, currently stewarded by siblings Ernesto Perez and Givette Perez Orea. Their lineage is deeply intertwined with the industrialization of the Mexican coffee sector; their ancestors were instrumental in the development of Orea Machines, which modernized coffee processing in the 1950s. This legacy of technical expertise and agricultural stewardship informs the siblings' current approach to farm management.

Ernesto Perez, who studied in the United States, brings a global perspective to the family estate, having been heavily influenced by the specialty coffee movement in Texas. Upon returning to Mexico, he and Givette transitioned the farm's focus toward premium-quality production. Today, the estate spans approximately 20 hectares at an elevation of 1,250 meters above sea level. The siblings manage the farm with a focus on careful agronomy, navigating the challenges of climate and disease, such as Coffee Leaf Rust, while maintaining high standards for their harvest.

The farm is known for cultivating a diverse range of coffee varieties, including Criolla, Typica, Garnica, Marsellesa, and the highly sought-after Geisha. By diversifying their varietal portfolio, the Perez siblings have been able to experiment with different flavor profiles and quality tiers. Their dedication to excellence is evidenced by their participation in the Mexico Cup of Excellence, where they have presented meticulously cultivated lots to international judges.

Processing at Finca Fatima is a critical component of their quality control. The farm produces both washed and natural process coffees, allowing the inherent characteristics of the varieties to shine through. In their natural process lots, the cherries are dried in a way that allows fruit sugars to infuse the beans, creating distinct, complex profiles. This technical precision in post-harvest processing has made their coffee a staple for specialty roasters looking for high-quality, traceable Mexican origins.

Beyond their work at Finca Fatima, the siblings have expanded their footprint in the region. In 2023, they acquired a new property, Finca La Perla, further signaling their commitment to the long-term growth of their coffee operations. Ernesto also serves as a conduit for other producers in Veracruz, leveraging his industry connections to help bring regional coffees to a wider audience through his work with APG Specialty Coffees.

For the consumer and the roaster, the work of Givette and Ernesto Perez represents the 'seed-to-cup' philosophy in practice. Their story is one of balancing historical legacy with modern innovation. By focusing on high-altitude cultivation and rigorous processing, they have successfully positioned Finca Fatima as a benchmark for quality in Veracruz, proving that traditional coffee-growing regions can continue to evolve and compete at the highest levels of the specialty market.