Moisés Herrera and the Caballero family

Moisés Herrera and Marysabel Caballero represent a cornerstone of specialty coffee production in the Marcala region of Honduras. Marysabel, a fourth-generation coffee producer, grew up in the industry, while Moisés, originally from Guatemala, brought an analytical background in economics to the partnership. Together, they have expanded upon the legacy of Marysabel’s father, Don Fabio Caballero, transforming a family tradition into a sophisticated, multi-farm operation that emphasizes precision, innovation, and environmental stewardship.

The couple manages a network of approximately seventeen farms, including the flagship Finca El Puente and Las Lomas. Their operations are centered in the Chinacla area, where high altitudes, cool temperatures, and clay-rich soils provide an ideal environment for cultivating high-quality coffee. By integrating organic fertilizers—such as composted manure and coffee pulp—and planting fruit trees to foster biodiversity, they maintain a sustainable approach that balances high-yield production with ecological health.

Innovation is a hallmark of their work, particularly in their approach to processing and variety selection. While Catuai remains a primary cultivar across their farms, they have successfully introduced and cultivated diverse varieties including Geisha, Java, Pacamara, SL28, and Mokka. Their Xinacla wet mill serves as the hub for their processing efforts, where they methodically manage lots to ensure consistency, often experimenting with new drying techniques and fermentation methods to push the boundaries of flavor profiles.

The family’s dedication to quality has earned them significant international acclaim. They have achieved multiple top placements in the Honduras Cup of Excellence, including first-place finishes in 2016, 2018, and 2025. Additionally, their work has been recognized by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), including a notable third-place finish in the 2010 SCAA Coffee of the Year competition. These accolades have solidified their status as pioneers who have helped shift the global perception of Honduran coffee toward the specialty market.

Beyond the awards, the Caballero family is known for their collaborative spirit and transparency. They frequently engage with international roasters and coffee professionals, hosting visits and participating in educational exchanges to share their expertise on farm management and processing. This openness has fostered long-term partnerships with roasters worldwide, who value the family’s consistent output and their willingness to experiment with 'funky' or experimental processing lots.

Today, the family continues to expand their reach, with newer projects like the La Salvaje farm demonstrating their ongoing commitment to growth. By blending deep-rooted heritage with modern agricultural science, Moisés Herrera and Marysabel Caballero remain influential figures in the coffee industry, serving as a model for how producers can successfully navigate the complexities of the specialty market while maintaining a focus on quality and sustainability.