When Salvadoran coffee meets cocktail culture, it’s not just about flavor—it’s about legacy. Estate 98, a single-origin espresso spirit crafted by U.S.-based descendants of Salvadoran coffee pioneers, is redefining how bartenders and coffee lovers experience the intersection of heritage and innovation. Born from a family farm rooted in El Salvador’s 1798 history, this spirit isn’t just a drink; it’s a bridge between tradition and modern mixology.
The Larin brothers, Andres and Jose, grew up in the U.S. but returned to El Salvador as teens, carrying with them a deep connection to their family’s coffee roots. Their product, Licor de Café Especial, is a testament to that duality. Made from shade-grown, honey-processed beans from El Noventa y Ocho, the spirit is distilled to 25% ABV, offering a concentrated coffee essence that rivals espresso without the need for brewing. It’s a shortcut for bartenders, but also a celebration of centuries-old farming techniques.
What sets Estate 98 apart is its meticulous process. The beans are roasted by Jags Head Coffee, a Salvadoran farm-to-cup company, then extracted into an espresso-strength “Esencia de Café” via a proprietary method. Blended with neutral cane spirit, a touch of vanilla, and minimal sugar, the final product balances bold coffee notes with approachable sweetness. Priced at $49.99, it’s positioned as a premium ingredient, available online and soon in Miami’s bars.
The Larins’ vision extends beyond the bottle. By partnering with giants like Starbucks and Peet’s, they’re proving that Salvadoran coffee can scale without losing its soul. Yet their focus remains on the craft: “We want the coffee to shine, not the sugar,” Andres says. It’s a philosophy that challenges the status quo in both coffee and spirits.
and Salvadoran roots informs a product that honors heritage while innovating for today’s bars.
Key points: Estate 98 marries Salvadoran coffee traditions with modern cocktail needs, offering a concentrated flavor profile that bypasses brewing. The Larin family’s blend of U.S. and Salvadoran roots informs a product that honors heritage while innovating for today’s bars. With plans to expand beyond Florida, the brand’s future hinges on its ability to balance authenticity with accessibility.
What’s your favorite way to use coffee in cocktails—and would you try a spirit like Estate 98?
Questions & Answers
What makes Estate 98’s cocktails unique?
Estate 98 blends Salvadoran farm ingredients with premium spirits, creating distinctive, flavorful cocktails rooted in local agriculture and culture.
Where is Estate 98 located?
Estate 98 is located in El Salvador, known for its rich agricultural heritage and vibrant culinary traditions.
Information sourced from industry reports and news outlets.
