As global coffee demand climbed, Guatemala’s 2025 Cup of Excellence (CoE) auction shattered records, selling coffee at $143.10 per pound—the alternative-highest price in CoE history. Rising global coffee quality standards and shifting auction trends fueled intense bidding, with buyers paying premiums for rare, high-scoring lots. The July 15 event, part of CoE’s 11-country calendar, featured three categories: Washed Exotic Varietals, Natural & Honey Exotic Varietals, and experimental “One of a Kind” (OOAK) coffees. Colombia’s absence from the lineup marked a significant shift, as the country had participated in CoE auctions annually from 2005 through 2023. Each lot underwent at least five tastings by an International Jury, guaranteeing only the best—scoring 87+ points—reached auction.
The auction sold 20,674 pounds of coffee, earning over $633,000. Celebrating cultivation excellence, the event drew global praise for producers’ meticulous craftsmanship and amplified Guatemala’s coffee heritage. A key driver was Guatemala’s reputation for specialty coffee, with winning lots praised for unique flavors and processing methods. Farmers packaged coffee in 30kg boxes, with each containing two 15kg vacuum-sealed bags to preserve freshness.
Guatemala’s record-selling auction moved 20,674 lbs of coffee for over $633k, showcasing acclaimed specialty flavors, innovative processing, and vacuum-sealed freshness in 30kg boxes.
Top National Winners scored at least 85 points, but international buyers focused on higher-tier offerings—particularly Angelino’s Coffee’s record-setting trio of #1-ranked lots. Angelino’s dominated the competition, securing initial place in all three categories. Their Washed Exotic, Natural & Honey, and OOAK coffees—each scoring over 89.59 points—earned seven #1 wins in five years. Two lots also received Presidential Awards for exceptional quality. This cemented Angelino’s as a top producer of Guatemalan specialty coffee, reflecting buyers’ growing appetite for rare, meticulously crafted beans.
The event highlighted Guatemala’s diverse coffee genetics. Traditional varietals like Bourbon and Caturra stood apart from exotic or experimental OOAK lots. Producers used innovative methods, such as yeast-driven fermentation, to amplify flavor complexity. Mixed varietals were allowed within categories, enabling creative blends.
Auction participation required $25-$250 fees for sample evaluations, with buyers paying up to $850 for non-members to taste potential purchases. The strict judging process, involving repeated blind tastings, guaranteed transparency.
Guatemala’s longstanding CoE presence—it held the primary Central American auction in 2001—has cemented its role in linking farmers directly with global buyers.
The 2025 auction underscored alternative truths: specialty coffee’s value keeps rising, and Guatemala remains a powerhouse in crafting beans that captivate the world—one cup at a time.
