What is Gesha Coffee?
Similar to apple varieties like the Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady, coffee varitey (or subspecies) are based on multiple factors including weather, climate, and growing region. Gesha coffee is one of many varitey and is known to have some of the highest cup scores in the world.
Though it originates from the Gesha village in Ethiopia, it was in Panama in 2007 that the Gesha varietal made a name for itself when it broke the record for the most expensive coffee ever sold in Best of Panama. Ever since, producers have been growing more microlot varieties and experimenting with new coffee processing methods, allowing them to get paid more for their coffee.
Panama’s Coffee Producing Regions
Panama, known for its rich and diverse coffee-growing regions, is renowned for producing some of the world's most exceptional coffees. The country's unique climate, varied elevations, and volcanic soil contribute to its coffee's distinctive flavors. Bean & Bean sources from two of the many coffee-producing regions in Panama: Boquete and Volcán.
Boquete is arguably the most famous coffee-producing region in Panama. Located in the highlands of Chiriquí Province, Boquete's cool temperatures, rich volcanic soil, and ample rainfall create ideal conditions for coffee cultivation. Volcán is situated close to Boquete and also benefits from high altitudes and fertile volcanic soil. Both regions are known for producing both specialty coffees and unique varitey, including high quality Gesha coffee. The climate, elevation and rich soil produces some of the best coffee in the world.
Where we went
Day 1: Finca Hartmann Farm
With over a hundred years of history, the Hartmann family prides itself on being environmentally (and bird) friendly. The Finca consists of several smaller farms where coffee grows under the shade of the native rainforest. The Hartmann farm aims to work the land without destroying it: they avoid cutting down trees and replant native flora to maintain the balance of this ancient ecosystem. The Hartmann Farm has been recognized time and time again for their excellent coffee, including a first place win in the 2016 Best of Panama competition.
Day 2: Janson Family Farm
Bean & Bean have been proud partners of the Jansons’ for 4 years. Established in 1941, the Janson Family Farm is located in the rich soil between the Tisingal and Baru volcanoes. The plantations are separated by forests, which act as natural barriers against pests. In short, nature is the Jansons’ greatest ally, and they repay its kindness with thoughtful and sustainable farming methods.
Rather than chemical fertilizers, the Janson’s maintain the nutrient-rich volcanic soil using enzyme microorganisms. And by carefully preserving the surrounding forests, the farm keeps out pests without the use of pesticides. Finally, 400 solar panels produce the energy for the farms. The Janson farm has won many awards, including top 3 placements in the Best of Panama competition in 2016, 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2023.
Day 3: Altieri Farm
Altieri Specialty Coffee was founded by Eugene Altieri, an Italian-American businessman residing in Panama. When he bought the farms, he had no experience in coffee cultivation. He quickly discovered, however, that his new land was perfect for growing coffee. Located on the slopes of the Baru Volcano, the farm benefits both from the fertile volcanic soil and the high altitude (1700 to 2200 meters)–perfect conditions for coffee farming.
With its prime location and dedication to excellence, Altieri has distinguished itself as an exceptional coffee farm, winning top 3 placements at the Best of Panama coffee competition in 2017 and 2024. Now, Altieri’s children work to continue his legacy, expanding the business while maintaining their high standards and excellent reputation.
Day 4: Lamastus Estate
Lamastus Estate Coffee Farms in Panama is a family farm managed by Wilford Lamastus Sr., his wife, Velia, and their son, Wilford Jr. They are known for selling one of the world’s priciest coffees at over $6,000 per pound. Their dedication to excellence is reflected in their impressive cupping track record, winning 1st prize in the Best of Panama competition in 2016, 2018, 2019, and 2024.
Bean & Bean held a successful event with Wilford Sr. in July, where we brewed and tasted our take on their famous Elida Estate Gesha. Within a week, we were sold out of this rich complex coffee.
Day 5: Hacienda La Esmerelda
Founded by Rudolph Peterson in 1967 in the small town of Boquete, this family farm has over 50 years of coffee cultivating excellence under its belt. In 2004, the Peterson family, and Hacienda La Esmeralda, made waves in the Best of Panama competition. They made a name for the Gesha varietal, securing the highest price ever paid for coffee at auction and snagging first place. As a result, Gesha coffee from Hacienda La Esmerelda is now some of the most famous, expensive, and sought after in the world.
Today, the farm is run by mother-daughter duo Rachel and Alex Peterson, and has gone on to win 1st prize at the Best of Panama competition in 2006, 2009, 2010, and 2019.
Day 6: Lerida Farm
Managed by the Reyes family, Lerida Farm is known for its outstanding quality, winning 1st place at the Best of Panama competition in 2015 and 2018. Originally owned by famous engineer Tollef Bache Monniche of the Panama Canal, Finca Lerida has decades of history growing exceptional coffee. This 900-acre estate is rooted in the nutrient rich soils of the Volcan Barú National Park. The owners work to preserve this delicate ecosystem, prioritizing sustainability in all aspects of their work. The farm also provides housing for their employees and schools for their children.
