Valentino's Story
Valentino Arriola’s journey into coffee didn't begin behind a sleek, modern espresso bar; it started in the dirt. In 2004, he took his first steps in the industry working directly on a coffee farm. Immersed in the daily grind of the harvest and the reality of agronomy, he built his foundation from the ground up. It was there, at the source, that he mastered the interconnected arts of roasting, cupping, and barista craft, developing a profound, seed-to-cup respect for the raw material.
From Farm to City
Bringing that farm-level perspective to the city, Valentino went on to open and successfully run two coffee shops in the historic, coffee-rich city of Antigua, Guatemala, so he understands the blood, sweat, and tears it takes to build a brand from scratch.
From Cafe Owner to Mentor
Today, he has transitioned from café owner to industry mentor. Working closely with iCoffee Solutions—Aillio’s trusted distributor in the region—Valentino is the guiding hand behind the launch of numerous specialty coffee shops. He consults for new businesses, represents top-tier espresso machine brands, and equips the next generation of coffee entrepreneurs for success.
Monkey Blood Coffees
Valentino has become known across Guatemala as a tremendous unifying force, a connector who brings the local coffee community together. But despite his busy consulting schedule, his hands never left the craft. He channels his two decades of experience into his personal roasting project, Monkey Blood Coffees.
Paying Homage
For Valentino, roasting is deeply personal; it is his way of capturing and sharing the complex flavor experiences he has collected across his long coffee journey, and a way of paying homage to the producers in the mountains of Guatemala and the baristas serving the final cup.