Los Chelazos, El Salvador Espresso

“Chelazos” is a term affectionately used to describe the residents of Chalatenango, a mountainous region in northern El Salvador that borders Honduras. This area is known for its unique population—many people in this region have lighter skin tones with green or blue eyes, which are relatively uncommon in other parts of the country. These distinctive traits have earned them the nickname ‘Chelitos’, which inspired the name Los Chelazos.

The Los Chelazos coffee blend brings together beans from two key cantons: Citalá and La Palma. Both are nestled within the Montecristo Trifinio region, a tri-national protected area that spans parts of El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras. Recognized as a UNESCO biosphere reserve in 2011, this region is home to remarkable biodiversity and pristine natural landscapes.

Caravela began working closely with local coffee growers in this highland area back in 2012. To strengthen relationships and improve quality control, they established a buying station and cupping lab in La Palma in December 2015, creating a vital hub for collaboration and support.