Lote Magnolia

Don Santiago is the backbone behind much of this lot. We had the pleasure of meeting Don Santiago, dining in his house, and touring his beloved coffee farm in early 2023. Over the years, he has dedicated the majority of his harvest to these lots, which takes a lot of faith particularly in this high market season. He actively believes in the mission of the cooperative and has gone out of his way to support our (Collaborative Origins) relationship with COSAMAJ. This level of commitment and dedication is heavily seen in his lands and in the way his cherries are harvested.

Since 2019, Don Santiago has gotten the chance to meet 5-6 of the coffee roasters who roast his coffee. These opportunities have helped change the perception he has when harvesting cherries. Instead of the unknown abyss, he now has a mental picture of the people who will eventually buy his coffee. It’s this picture that motives him to do an even better job. For him, being able to invest into these relationships signifies a better future for his 5 kids, who will eventually follow in his footsteps.

More about the lot…

Lote Magnolia receives its name from a geographical region of Jilotepeque called Las Magnolias. As COSAMAJ, they liked the idea of separating out lots by the various geographical regions in Jilotepeque, which is where the other names (Canajal, de Medina, and El Sapito) come from as well.

Our Approach to Transparency

At Euphoria, transparency begins with relationships. We believe that great coffee is rooted in mutual trust, respect, and shared commitment, long before it ever reaches your cup.

Instead of focusing solely on numbers or certifications, we prioritize long-standing partnerships with the farmers who grow our coffee. Some of these relationships have been years in the making, built through consistent communication, shared goals, and genuine care for one another’s success.

We believe the length of these relationships is one of the most meaningful indicators of transparency. A farmer would not choose to work with us year after year if we were cutting corners, negotiating unfairly, or treating their work as anything less than the craft it is. When both sides continue to return, it’s because the partnership is healthy, respectful, and mutually beneficial.

For some of our newer relationships, the foundation is the same: direct access and open communication are non-negotiable. We do not pursue sourcing situations where we can’t talk directly with the people producing the coffee, nor do we enter relationships that don’t have the potential to grow into something long-term. Our goal is always consistency, trust, and shared success, not one-time transactions.

Whenever possible, we visit our producing partners face to face. Sitting down together, walking their farms, and experiencing their work firsthand is invaluable. These moments deepen our connection and help ensure that our sourcing practices reflect our values in real, tangible ways.

When you enjoy our coffee, you’re supporting real people, real families, and real histories, thoughtfully connected across the world. That’s the heart of what we do, and that’s the kind of transparency we’re proud to stand behind.

Length of Relationship with Don Santiago: 4 years

How many different coffee lots we have purchased from the Vergara Don Santiago: 6+

Have we met Don Santiago face to face? Yes, in 2022 we visited his farm and had coffee at his house. An incredible honor for us!

Thank you! – Nick Yost / Owner of Euphoria Coffee Roasting