Panama has once again made headlines in the elite world of specialty coffee culture. The Geisha-washed coffee, produced in the highlands of Chiriquí, specifically at the Carmen Estate, has captivated the most demanding palates, setting a new record at the Best of Panama electronic auction by selling for $10,005 per kilo. This event not only highlights the exceptional quality of Panamanian coffee but also the unwavering support for producers by the Specialty Coffee Association of Panama (SCAP).
Chronological table of Geisha coffees in the Best of Panama (BOP) electronic auctions (2013 to 2023).
| Year | Price (USD per pound) | Type of Coffee | Farm / Producer | Buyer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 4538.20 | 🏆Geisha Washed | Carmen Estates by Panama Red Carmen Café Trading | Coffee Tech, New Zealand |
| 2022 | 2000.49 | 🏆Black Jaguar Natural Limited | Guarumo Coffee Farm | Saza Coffee (Japan), Grand Cru Coffee (China), Coffee Tech (New Zealand) and others |
| 2021 | 2568.00 | 🏆Nuguo Fermented Geisha Natural | José Manuel Gallardo | Saza Coffee from Japan |
| 2020 | 1300.50 | 🏆Olympus Geisha Washed | Finca Sophia by Willem J. Boot and Helen Russell | Pick Coffee, Taiwan |
| 2019 | 1029.00 | 🏆Elida Geisha Green Tip Natural | Lamastus Family Estates | Saza Coffee in Japan |
| 2018 | 803.00 | 🏆Elida Geisha Green Tip Natural | Lamastus Family Estates | Black Gold Coffee, from Taiwan |
| 2017 | 601.00 | 🏆Geisha Esmeralda Cañas Verdes Natural | Hacienda La Esmeralda | KEW Specialty Coffee Ltd, Sydney Coffee Business Pty Ltd, Saza Coffee, Japan |
| 2016 | 275.50 | 🏆Elida Geisha Green Tip Washed | Lamastus Family Estates | Saza Coffee, Japan |
| 2015 | 140.10 | 🏆Esmeralda Geisha Natural Jaramillo | Hacienda La Esmeralda | Saza Coffee and Hayaa Gourmet Coffee Co. LTD, Taiwan |
| 2014 | 107.86 | 🏆La Mula Natural CAC | —————- | Junior Roasted Coffee, USA |
| 2013 | 350.25 | 🏆Esmeralda Special Natural C.V. | Hacienda La Esmeralda | Saza Coffee and Hayaa Gourmet Coffee Co. LTD, Taiwan |
What Makes the Geisha Washed So Special?
Geisha coffee is prized for its unique flavor profile, with jasmine, citrus, and fruit notes. The washed version of this coffee, grown above 1900 meters at Carmen Estate, promises an unmatched sensory experience, balanced body, and acidity that only meticulous attention and Panama’s microclimate can provide.
Carmen Estate🏆 : The most expensive in the world
Since its foundation in 1960, Carmen Estate has epitomized the pinnacle of coffee cultivation. Nestled in the Chiriquí highlands, this estate has harnessed its extraordinary locale to produce coffee that has achieved global recognition. The unique terroir, characterized by rich volcanic soil and an optimal microclimate, lays the foundation for cultivating coffee beans with unparalleled flavor profiles.
The estate’s commitment to quality has been unwavering, continuously investing in advanced cultivation techniques to enhance the bean’s quality. This dedication to excellence is a testament to Carmen Estate’s legacy, ensuring that each cup of coffee offers a distinct taste experience that reflects the estate’s rich heritage and innovative spirit.
Trading under Panama Red Carmen Café, Carmen Estates recently set a new global benchmark by selling a lot of 25 kilograms (55 pounds) of Carmen Geisha-washed coffee for $10,005 per kilo during an electronic auction, marking a world record. This sale, totaling $250,125, was secured by Coffee Tech from New Zealand, demonstrating Carmen Estate’s unparalleled position in the coffee industry.
This achievement highlights the estate’s commitment to producing coffee of the highest caliber and signifies the global coffee market’s evolving landscape, where quality and rarity command premium prices. Under the ownership of the Chinese Dashang Group, Carmen Estate continues to build on its legacy, blending traditional practices with innovative techniques to cultivate coffee that stands in a league of its own.
The Specialty Coffee Association of Panama (SCAP): Championing Quality
SCAP plays a crucial role in promoting Panama’s coffee globally. Through fostering innovation, sustainability, and ethical practices, SCAP has successfully positioned Panamanian coffee, especially the Geisha variety, at the forefront of the coffee world.
This organization’s commitment to excellence ensures that Panama’s coffee enchants the most discerning palates internationally.
Best of Panama (BOP): Elevating Coffee Standards
SCAP’s Best of Panama (BOP) competition showcases the country’s premier coffees. By rigorously evaluating submissions on various sensory criteria, BOP identifies and celebrates the highest quality coffees, culminating in an auction that often sets worldwide price records.
The BOP not only accentuates the exceptional qualities of Panama’s coffee but also serves as a testament to the producers’ dedication and the unique terroir of the Panamanian highlands.
Breaking Records
The Best of Panama electronic auction has been where Carmen Estate’s Geisha washed has shone, reaching $10,005 per kilo.
This lot, purchased by Coffee Tech from New Zealand, reflects the international recognition of Panama’s quality and unique flavor to the coffee world.
Flavor Profile: What Does a $10,000 Coffee Taste Like?
The Geisha washed from Carmen Estate offers a complex and harmonious flavor profile. Experts and tasters highlight its floral and citrus notes, elegant body, and vibrant acidity, which justify its price and position it as a collector’s coffee.
Community and the Coffee Industry
The auction has not only benefited the producers of Carmen Estate but has also reaffirmed Panama’s commitment to coffee quality. The average price of $868 per kilogram at this auction reflects an overall increase in the valuation of Panamanian coffee, benefiting the entire producer community.
Sustainability and Ethics
The Carmen Estate, guided by the Franceschi family since 1960, has set a standard in the coffee industry for combining high-quality coffee production with ethical and sustainable practices. Their commitment extends beyond the bean, fostering the community’s well-being and conserving Panama’s natural environment. This holistic approach to coffee cultivation, emphasizing respect for the land and its people, has been central to their operations for over five decades.
A Legacy Rooted in Sustainability
Achieving certification from the C.A.F.E. Practices program in 2014, Carmen Estate showcased its dedication to environmental stewardship and innovative agricultural management. This recognition underscores the estate’s efforts in ecosystem conservation and marks a significant milestone in its journey toward sustainable coffee production. Nestled in the highlands, Carmen Estate Coffee embodies the Franceschi family’s passion, pride, and dedication, ensuring that each cup of coffee is a testament to their commitment to quality and sustainability.
Suppose you want to learn more about sustainability in Panamanian coffee production and its positive environmental and social impact. In that case, we invite you to read our article Sustainable Panamanian Coffee: Crafting A Positive Environmental And Social Impact.
Is the Price Worth It? Perspectives and Opinions
The record of $10,005 per kilo has sparked a debate on the value of specialty coffee. While some see this price as a testament to unparalleled quality, others reflect on the accessibility of luxury coffee. However, the international demand and willingness to pay premium prices for Panamanian geishas are evidence of its incomparable position in the market.
Conclusion
The Geisha washed from Carmen Estate is not just a coffee; it’s a symbol of Panamanian excellence in the global coffee culture. Its record price at the Best of Panama auction is a testament to the quality, flavor, and effort behind every bean. Panama continues to lead the specialty coffee market, demonstrating the world’s preference for its high-quality beans. The achievements of Panamanian coffee, particularly the Geisha variety, underscore the country’s significant impact on the specialty coffee industry, achieving high prices and setting new standards for quality and taste.
If you want to learn more about Panamanian coffee, you’ll likely enjoy The Panama Geisha Coffee.