Why Panama Is Home to Some of the World’s Finest Coffees

Why Panama Is Home to Some of the World’s Finest Coffees

Panama has earned a revered place in the global coffee scene, thanks to its unique geography, dedication to quality, and the now-legendary Geisha variety. Nestled in the highlands of Chiriquí, Panamanian farms benefit from volcanic soil, cool temperatures, and high altitudes—ideal conditions for cultivating premium Arabica beans.

The star of the show is Geisha, a rare coffee variety that originated in Ethiopia but found its true expression in Panama. Since its global debut in 2004, Panamanian Geisha has consistently broken auction records, most recently surpassing $10,000 per kilogram at the 2024 Best of Panama auction.

But Panama's success isn’t just about genetics or altitude—it’s about obsessive attention to detail. From selective hand-harvesting to meticulous processing, producers like Hacienda La Esmeralda, Finca Elida, and Lamastus Family Estates have set new standards in specialty coffee.

Today, Panama may be a small player in terms of volume, but it leads the world in quality, innovation, and cup profile—offering an unforgettable coffee experience, one luxurious sip at a time.

→ Taste the legacy of Panama.