This month's NerdRoast: Mexico La Laja

Hi everyone,

This month, we’re heading south to Chiapas, Mexico, where the highlands near the Guatemalan border produce some of the country’s most balanced and aromatic coffees. Our featured bean, Mexico La Laja HG EP, is a beautifully clean and approachable cup—bright, nutty, and softly sweet.

Origin & Producer

La Laja is a family-run operation in Chiapas, one of Mexico’s oldest and most respected coffee regions. The farm sits between 1,000 and 1,250 meters above sea level, where the combination of rich volcanic soil and cool mountain air encourages slow cherry development and complex sugars.

Processing

These beans are fully washed and sun-dried on patios, a traditional method that highlights the bean’s clarity and smooth body. The HG (High Grown) designation indicates higher elevation and higher density beans, while EP (European Preparation) means only the best beans make it through sorting.

Tasting Notes

Expect a soft sweetness of apricot and golden raisin, balanced by a smooth milk chocolate base and a nutty finish. It’s a comforting, medium-bodied cup—perfect for cool mornings or an afternoon brew.

Roast & Brew

We roasted this La Laja lot to a medium level to preserve its natural sweetness while developing a creamy texture and mellow acidity. It performs beautifully as both a pour-over and drip brew, and its nutty chocolate notes make it ideal for espresso lovers who prefer a gentler, fruit-kissed shot.

There’s something quietly special about coffees like La Laja: humble, balanced, and deeply satisfying. I hope this cup brings a moment of calm to your day and reminds you that sometimes the most memorable pleasures are the simplest.

Tony