This coffee is a true gem—or at least we like to think so. The Gesha varietal has been the go-to coffee for barista champions over the past decade. It first appeared on the coffee scene 20 years ago in Panama when Hacienda La Esmeralda won the Best of Panama auction with this exceptional varietal. Its fame spread quickly, and farmers eagerly sought Gesha beans, which typically command a higher price due to their unique flavour profile.
Back in 2015, I (Alejandro) reached out to CATIE (Tropical Agricultural Research and Higher Education Center) in Costa Rica and managed to obtain 200 grams of seeds from their varietal garden. After preparing the nursery, we cultivated about 300 trees, which we planted in 2017 at the highest lot on our farm.
Our farm produces extremely limited quantities of this coffee, which we proudly keep as our "Owner's Reserve." This year, I was able to produce just 15 kg of this Gesha, naturally processed on raised beds right on our farm. I thought the best way to share it would be by including it in the Advent Calendar for your enjoyment.
Expect a juicy cup with bright, medium acidity that lingers beautifully on the palate.