Los Pirineos

Located atop the Tecapa volcano mountain range between the towns of Berlin and Santiago de Maria, Los Pirineos is named for its resemblance to the Pyrenees mountains. The farm has been under the stewardship of the Baraona family for over 130 years, with coffee production dating back to 1889. The estate spans over 150 hectares at altitudes ranging from 1100 to 1500 meters above sea level, benefiting from a unique microclimate and a man-made plateau that provides optimal sunlight and airflow for drying coffee cherries.

The farm is perhaps most famous for its extensive genetic diversity, housing the largest private seed bank in El Salvador with over 80 distinct coffee varietals. While the farm historically focused on Bourbon, Typica, Pacas, and Pacamara—which currently account for the majority of its production—the Baraona family has continuously expanded their collection. Recent harvests have introduced exotic cultivars to the farm, including SL-28, Harrar, and Sudan Rume, reflecting a commitment to agricultural innovation.

Leadership at Los Pirineos transitioned to the fifth generation in 2020 when Diego Baraona took over operations following the passing of his father, the legendary producer Gilberto Baraona. Diego, who was living in Barcelona at the time, chose to return to El Salvador to preserve his family's legacy. Under his guidance, the farm has maintained its reputation for rigorous quality control, meticulous equipment maintenance, and a forward-thinking approach to processing techniques.

Since 2017, the farm has collaborated with partners like Project Origin to push the boundaries of post-harvest processing. This includes the implementation of experimental methods such as carbonic maceration, alongside traditional washed, honey, and natural processes. These techniques are supported by the farm's specialized infrastructure, which allows for precise control over drying and fermentation, ensuring that the unique characteristics of each varietal are fully expressed in the cup.

Los Pirineos has achieved significant recognition on the global stage, including multiple placements in the Cup of Excellence competition. Its coffees are highly sought after by roasters and baristas worldwide, frequently cited for their complex flavor profiles, which range from bright, fruit-forward notes in experimental lots to the deep, sweet, and balanced characteristics of their classic Bourbon Elite.

The farm's impact extends beyond its own production; it serves as a model for specialty coffee excellence in El Salvador. By maintaining a balance between historical preservation—such as the use of original plants imported from Antigua, Guatemala—and modern scientific experimentation, Los Pirineos remains a vital reference point for the industry. For the drinker, it represents a standard of consistency and innovation that defines the pinnacle of Central American coffee production.