The H1 varietal in Guatemala: a coffee game-changer

Each varietal carries a unique story, flavour profile, and impact on the coffee-growing ecosystem. One varietal making waves in the coffee industry is H1, also known as Centroamericano H1. Developed with innovation and sustainability in mind, H1 has captured the attention of coffee producers and roasters like - creating a delicious cup.

What is the H1 varietal?

H1 is a hybrid varietal created through a collaboration between the World Coffee Research (WCR) and regional coffee institutes. It’s a cross between the high-quality Sarchimor (a hybrid of Timor and Villa Sarchi) and Rume Sudan, a wild Ethiopian variety known for its unique flavours. The goal of this hybrid was to combine resilience with exceptional cup quality, addressing the growing challenges posed by climate change and coffee diseases like leaf rust, that can be detrimental in Guatemala.

Why is H1 so significant?

Guatemala is renowned for its diverse coffee-growing regions, ranging from the high-altitude farms of Huehuetenango to the volcanic soils of Antigua. However, this diversity also exposes farmers to various challenges, including leaf rust (“roya”), erratic weather patterns, and increasing costs of production. H1 presents a solution to some of these issues.

One of H1’s standout characteristics is its resistance to leaf rust or "roya", a fungal disease that has devastated coffee farms across Central America. By planting H1, farmers can reduce the risk of losing crops to this pervasive threat.

H1 thrives at a range of altitudes and climates, making it a versatile choice for varied landscapes and diverse microclimates. Its resilience in diverse growing conditions ensures that more farmers can adopt it without compromising on yield or quality.

The hybrid’s higher yield potential and reduced need for fungicides make it an environmentally friendly choice. 

Unlike many disease-resistant varietals that compromise on flavour, H1 maintains a very high cup quality. Its flavour profile often includes bright acidity, floral notes, and a balanced sweetness.

Challenges of introducing H1

While H1 offers numerous benefits, its adoption is not without challenges. The initial cost of acquiring H1 seeds or seedlings can be a barrier for smallholder farmers. Additionally, the varietal’s full potential is realised only with proper agronomic practices, requiring education and support for growers.

Another concern is the potential loss of biodiversity. Guatemala boasts a rich heritage of traditional varietals, such as Bourbon, Caturra, and Typica. Striking a balance between introducing resilient hybrids like H1 and preserving native varietals is crucial for maintaining a unique coffee identity.

The future of H1

As the coffee industry evolves, H1 represents a promising path forward for Central American farmers facing environmental and economic pressures. Organisations like Anacafé (Guatemala’s national coffee association) and global research initiatives are working to support the increased use of H1. 

In Guatemala, where coffee is more than just a crop—it’s a legacy—the H1 varietal offers hope for a thriving future, blending tradition with innovation.