Moisés Herrera and the Caballero family

Moisés Herrera and Marysabel Caballero represent a cornerstone of modern Honduran specialty coffee production. Based in the Marcala region of La Paz, the couple manages a collection of farms, including the renowned Finca El Puente. Their work is defined by a multi-generational legacy; Marysabel is a fourth-generation coffee farmer who, alongside her husband Moisés, has transitioned the family operation into a globally recognized model for quality and consistency. The family’s influence is so significant that they are frequently cited as pioneers who helped shape the high-quality coffee industry in Honduras.

The couple’s professional trajectory is deeply intertwined with the evolution of the Cup of Excellence (CoE) in Honduras. Their commitment to excellence has earned them a reputation as some of the most decorated growers in the competition's history, with a combined total of 14 lots having reached the CoE finals. This success is not merely a result of favorable geography but is attributed to their meticulous approach to farm management and their willingness to experiment with processing techniques, such as the protocols developed by Moisés in 2017 to improve the cleanliness and consistency of natural-processed coffees.

Operating across 17 farms in the challenging, high-altitude climate of Marcala, the couple manages diverse coffee varieties, most notably Catuai and Pacamara. Their infrastructure, including the Xinacla wet mill, allows them to maintain strict control over post-harvest processing. By focusing on both washed and natural methods, they have demonstrated an ability to adapt to the specific needs of different cultivars, ensuring that the unique characteristics of each lot are preserved from the tree to the final cup.

Beyond technical production, the Caballero family is noted for their focus on social and environmental responsibility. Their management style includes a strong commitment to fair labor practices, including profit-sharing initiatives that reflect their belief in the value of their workforce. This holistic approach to farming has fostered long-term, multi-decade partnerships with international roasters, who rely on the family’s consistent output to represent the potential of Honduran terroir.

The transition of leadership within the family has been a significant milestone in their history. Following the retirement of Fabio and Sandra Isabel Caballero, the responsibility for the family’s coffee operations and established trade relationships has passed to Marysabel and Moisés. This transition ensures the continuity of the family’s high standards while allowing the next generation to continue innovating within the specialty coffee sector.

For the specialty coffee industry, the work of Moisés Herrera and Marysabel Caballero serves as a benchmark for what is possible in Central American coffee production. Their ability to balance traditional farming wisdom with modern scientific rigor—such as their experimental processing methods—has provided a blueprint for other producers in the region. As they continue to manage their farms, their legacy remains defined by a relentless pursuit of quality that has fundamentally altered the global perception of Honduran coffee.