Taste of Tradition: Miguel’s Award-Winning Coffee
From a young age, Miguel Padilla Chinguel, alongside his six siblings, learned the craft of coffee cultivation under the guidance of his parents, Froirán and Ricarda, and his grandfather. Their teachings went beyond the technicalities of growing coffee, they instilled in him a deep respect for the land, the importance of nurturing it, and an understanding of its natural rhythms.
In 2021, Miguel and his wife, Nelcy Guerrero, decided to establish their own farm, El Mirador, located 1,800 meters above sea level in the scenic Chimburique region of Cajamarca, Peru. The farm’s name reflects the breathtaking panoramic views of expansive coffee fields and verdant forests. On this fertile land, Miguel and Nelcy cultivate a thoughtful blend of Geisha, Caturra, and Bourbon coffee, varieties celebrated for their distinct and exceptional flavor profiles. Committed to sustainability, they implement farming practices that protect the environment, ensuring the land thrives for future generations.
Miguel never envisioned his coffee entering competitions, but in 2021, a taster at the Sol & Café cooperative, where Miguel has been a member since 2008, recognized the exceptional quality of his beans. Encouraged by this insight, Miguel submitted his coffee to the Cup of Excellence competition. That simple suggestion proved to be transformative. Not only did his coffee earn recognition, but it also took first place in Peru’s prestigious competition, an incredible validation of the dedication and hard work Miguel and his family had invested in their farm over the years.
The coffee from El Mirador is a true testament to Miguel’s dedication to quality and his family’s passion for the craft. Scoring an impressive 90.54 at the 2024 Cup of Excellence, this blend of Geisha, Caturra, and Bourbon beautifully captures the essence of northern Peru. Its delicate floral aroma leads into vibrant, lively notes of pomegranate, apricot, and lemon, creating an exciting and dynamic cup. As the flavors develop, a subtle sweetness of brown sugar and caramel emerges, adding depth and richness to the overall profile. This exceptional coffee reflects Miguel’s meticulous care at every step, from selecting the finest varieties to the careful harvesting and processing that ensure each cup is truly memorable.
Each sip of this award-winning coffee tells the story of Miguel’s journey, from his early years learning the craft of coffee cultivation to his recent victory at the Cup of Excellence. It’s a story of perseverance, passion, and an unwavering commitment to producing the finest coffee.
Winning the Cup of Excellence has opened new doors for Miguel and his family, providing opportunities to improve the infrastructure at El Mirador, expand his crop variety, and eventually create his own coffee brand. Above all, Miguel’s dream is to build a brighter future for his three children. Whether they choose to follow in his footsteps or pursue their own paths, Miguel is determined to pass on his deep love for coffee, his respect for the land, and the invaluable wisdom his family instilled in him.
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