At Big Dog Coffee, we think specialty coffee should be accessible to everyone, not something intimidating or only for experts. That’s why we’re thrilled to unveil one of our most significant new products: Mexico Cajpe Lak, a coffee with a story as deep as its flavour.

What Does “Cajpe Lak” Mean?

Cajpe Lak means “Coffee Flower” in Tsetsal, the language ofthe Mayan Tsetsal community in Tenejapa, Chiapas. This name is more than poetic; it signifies the strong bond between coffee, land, and culture in this area. For the Tsetsal people, coffee is more than just a crop - it’s an integral part of their language, traditions, and community life.

Where Is Cajpe Lak Grown?

Tenejapa lies nestled in the misty mountains of central Chiapas, Mexico. Coffee plants flourish beneath forest canopies and cloud cover, in a setting where nature dictates the rhythm of time.

• Altitude:     1,300–1,700 meters above sea level
• Soil:     Volcanic, nutrient-rich
• Climate:     Cool, humid, and shaded

These unique conditions allow coffee cherries to mature slowly, developing greater sweetness and complexity. The result is a cup that carries both elegance and depth — a direct reflection of the land and the patient work of the farmers who cultivate it.

Who Grows Cajpe Lak?

This coffee is produced by smallholder Tsetsal families who cultivate small plots in the highlands. Their methods are guided by ancestral knowledge passed down through generations and are based on a profound respect for maintaining harmony with nature.

Every bag of Cajpe Lak represents:

• 🌱     Heritage: centuries of Mayan tradition and cultural identity
• ✋     Craft: patient, hands-on farming practices
• 🌍     Sustainability: farming in harmony with the environment

Roast & Flavour Profile

We’ve roasted Cajpe Lak to a medium profile to let the natural character shine.

Tasting Notes:

• 🌸     Delicate jasmine-like florals
• 🍯     Honeyed sweetness
• 🍑     Gentle fruit brightness
• ☁️     Silky, lingering body

It’s the kind of coffee that feels special — but is still approachable enough for your everyday brew, whether you’re making a V60, Aeropress, or a classic cafetière.

Why We Love It

At Big Dog Coffee, our core principle is straightforward: delivering specialty coffee for everyday people. We aim to make coffee inclusive, not exclusive or elitist - serving as a bridge between the farmer and the drinker, and between culture and cup.

Mexico Cajpe Lak exemplifies this ideal well. It highlights resilience, culture, and connection, while also providing a fantastic flavour for your morning mug. This is the essence of specialty coffee: meaningful, accessible, and enjoyable.

Try Mexico Cajpe Lak Today

This is a limited release, so once it’s sold out, it won't be available again.

👉 Order Mexico Cajpe Lak Here

Incorporate the Chiapas story into your everyday life, because specialty coffee is for everyone.

At Big Dog Coffee, we craft our roasts from the heart of the South Wales Valleys, a region known for its hard work, resilience, and community spirit. Our background influences our approach to coffee: genuine, straightforward, and respectful of the people behind each bean. We believe specialty coffee should be accessible and simple, not exclusive or overly complicated. It's meant for everyday people.

That’s why we’re excited to introduce our latest offering: Guatemala Ayarza Anaerobic Natural. This coffee features vibrant tropical flavours and a story that links the Guatemalan hillsides to the valleys we call home.

Coffee from Santa Rosa, Guatemala

This lot comes from Ayarza, Santa Rosa, where volcanic soils and high-altitude conditions create the perfect environment for vibrant, fruit-forward coffee. At our Ayarza cherry mill, cherries are carefully selected and processed using the anaerobic natural method, which brings out stunning tropical complexity in the cup.

While processing is often done farmer-by-farmer in Guatemala, our mill model centralises the work. By paying a premium for ripe cherry and maintaining strict standards, we ensure that every lot is consistent and reflects the best of the region.

The People Behind the Coffee

One of the many farmers contributing to this lot is Arnaldo López, who has worked in coffee since childhood. With 12.6 hectares of farmland and the support of his wife Alicia and their children, Arnaldo continues a family tradition while adapting to the challenges of modern coffee farming — from disease to fluctuating yields.

For us in the Valleys, Arnaldo’s story resonates. Just like the communities here, his work is defined by resilience, graft, and a commitment to doing things right, even when times are tough.

The Flavour in Your Cup

We’ve roasted Guatemala Ayarza with care to keep it approachable while letting its unique character shine.

Tasting Notes:

• 🍋     Zesty lime
• 🥝     Juicy kiwi
• 🥭     Sweet mango
• 🌊     A silky smooth body

This coffee is vibrant and tropical without being overwhelming, making it an ideal brew for daily enjoyment, whether you prefer espresso or filter coffee.

Why It Matters to Us

As roasters from the Welsh Valleys, we take pride in connecting producers like Arnaldo with our customers. We avoid jargon and exclusivity, instead sharing the story straightforwardly, sincerely, and respectfully.

Ultimately, coffee is about connection: from the hillside farms of Guatemala to your mug in South Wales and beyond. That’s what “specialty coffee for everyday people” signifies to us.

Try Guatemala Ayarza today. Available in limited quantities, so enjoy it while you can.

👉 Order Guatemala Ayarza Here

From Guatemala to the Valleys, this coffee links people, land, and stories in every cup.

Single-boiler espresso machines operate with just one boiler that handles both brewing espresso and steaming milk. Switching between brewing and steaming can be a delightful challenge!

Advantages

1. Single boiler machines are generally more budget-friendly than dual boiler options, making them ideal for novices or those mindful of spending.

2. With fewer parts, maintenance is straightforward, reducing the likelihood of technical issues.

3. Many single boiler models feature a sleek, compact design for businesses with limitations on space.

Disadvantages

1. A single boiler machine boiler is relatively small, so it has limited steam capacity when switching to steam mode. This can affect steam speed, dryness, and wait time.

2. Switching between functions can cause temperature fluctuations, potentially affecting the quality of your espresso.

3. Single boiler machines use the same boiler for steaming milk and heating water, making it difficult to do both simultaneously. This can decrease performance, making them less suitable for high-volume cafes

Dual Boiler Espresso Machines

Dual boiler machines stand out with two separate boilers—one for brewing coffee and another for steaming milk! This advanced feature allows you to brew and steam simultaneously, making it a fantastic choice for fans of milk-based beverages.

Advantages

1. With dedicated boilers, you can maintain optimal brewing and steaming temperatures and consistently achieve flavourful espresso.

2. The ability to brew and steam simultaneously streamlines the process, making it perfect for busy baristas or hosting gatherings.

3. Better temperature and pressure control typically leads to exceptional extraction and foaming, elevating your coffee experience!

Disadvantages

1. Dual boiler machines have a higher price tag, which may be a factor for casual coffee drinkers or those new to espresso-making.

2. These machines usually take up more counter space, so consider your layout before committing.

3. More components mean more potential for maintenance issues, which might deter those who appreciate simplicity.

Ready to make a decision? Here are some key factors to consider before speaking with our team.

Volume of Sales

Consider the expected volume of coffee you’ll sell daily. If you anticipate high traffic, a dual boiler machine might more effectively handle multiple orders, especially for milk-based beverages.

Coffee Menu

Think about the types of drinks you plan to offer. If your menu includes many espresso and milk-based drinks (like lattes and cappuccinos), investing in a dual boiler machine can enhance the quality and speed of service.

Budget

Establish your budget beforehand. Single boiler machines are generally more economical, whereas dual boiler models are a more significant upfront investment. Factors include the machine cost, maintenance, repairs, and additional equipment (like grinders or bulk brewers).

Space Requirements

Evaluate the available space in your café. Dual boiler machines usually require more countertop space, so make sure your layout can accommodate the size of your chosen machine.

Ease of Use and Maintenance

If your baristas need to be more experienced, a straightforward single boiler machine might be easier to handle. Conversely, more professional staff might benefit from the precision and control of a dual boiler.

Brand and Reliability

Research different brands and their reputations in the industry. Look for machines known for durability and serviceability, as you want a machine that will stand up to daily use.

Features and Technology

Check for additional features like programmable settings, PID temperature control, and built-in grinders. These can enhance the user experience and the consistency of your brews.

Customer Service and Support

Ensure the manufacturer offers good customer support and service options. Reliable support can save you time and money in case of any issues.

Aesthetics  

Consider the coffee machine's design and aesthetics. Since the coffee machine is often a focal point in a café, its appearance should align with the café's overall branding and atmosphere.

Considering these factors can help you make a well-informed decision to benefit your café and enhance your customers’ coffee experience. To discuss coffee machinery with a team member today, reach out via the Contact Us page.