Lemonade, Red Berries, Vanilla
Producers: Small Holder Farmers
Origin: Tenajapa, Mexico
Elevation: 1350 masl
Varietal: Caturra, Costa Rica, Typica, Marsellesa
About This Coffee
Cajpe Lak means 'Coffee Flower' in Tsetsal, the native language of the Mayan Tsetsal people of Tenejapa. This name reflects the deep relationship between coffee and culture in this region—where coffee is more than a crop; it’s a way of life, a connection to land, language, and heritage. Grown by smallholder Tsetsal families who cultivate their coffee on small plots nestled in the highlands of Chiapas, Cajpe Lak is a celebration of ancestral knowledge, patient hands, and the quiet strength of a people who’ve lived in balance with their environment for generations.
The Process
Cajpe Lak is fully washed and processed at home by the same families who grow it, using artisanal methods that prioritize care and precision. Harvesting is done selectively, with ripe cherries picked by hand during early morning hours. After depulping, the coffee is fermented in small tanks or buckets for 24 to 36 hours, then washed and laid to dry on rooftops, nylon mesh, or wooden racks under the sun. Drying takes 8 to 12 days depending on the weather, and is closely monitored to protect the coffee’s integrity.
Though the tools are simple, the process is precise—guided by touch, smell, and experience passed through generations. The result is a coffee that’s clean and expressive, with soft florals, delicate fruit notes, and a gentle balance that honors the flower at its core. Cajpe Lak is a story in every cup—of land, language, and a living tradition.
The Region
Tenejapa is tucked into the misty mountains of central Chiapas, a place where the forest canopy and cloud cover shelter the coffee trees, and where time moves at the pace of nature. Farms are located between 1,300 and 1,700 meters above sea level, and the volcanic soils, abundant shade, and cool, humid climate create ideal conditions for slow cherry development. This slower maturation brings greater complexity to the cup. The producers in this particular area of Tenajapa are predominantly Tzetal-speaking Mayans, who grow coffee using traditional agroecological practices—often alongside corn, beans, and fruit trees—preserving both biodiversity and culture. The resulting coffees are soft but structured, with layered sweetness, mild citrus, and a floral elegance that reflects the coffee flower itself.
Tenejapa is a municipality located in the state of Chiapas, Mexico. Situated in the highlands of the Chiapas region, it is known for its rich indigenous culture and natural beauty. The Tzotzil Maya people form the predominant indigenous community in Tenejapa. They have a deep-rooted cultural heritage and maintain traditional customs and practices. The vibrant indigenous culture is evident in their clothing, language, rituals, and artisanal crafts.
Tenejapa is renowned for its traditional textiles, which are intricately woven and reflect the distinct cultural identity of the Tzotzil Maya. Local women often wear handwoven huipils (traditional blouses) adorned with intricate designs and vibrant colors. The textiles of Tenejapa are highly regarded for their quality and beauty. The municipality celebrates various traditional festivals and religious ceremonies throughout the year, blending indigenous customs with Catholic traditions. One notable celebration is the Fiesta Grande, held in December, featuring traditional dances, processions, music, and vibrant displays of Tzotzil culture.
