Specialty coffee has made a significant mark as a luxury item, especially showcased during the recent Best of Panama auction. A remarkable lot of Geisha coffee from Hacienda La Esmeralda sold for an astonishing $30,204 per kilogram, shattering previous records. This auction, organized by the Specialty Coffee Association of Panama, saw 30 out of 50 lots sold for over $1,000 per kilogram, with Esmeralda earning over $1.2 million for just 60 kilograms of coffee.
• The rise of Panamanian coffee began in the late 1980s with the establishment of SCAP and the Best of Panama auction.
• The introduction of the Geisha variety in 2004 by the Peterson family sparked global interest.
• Boquete is emerging as a coffee tourism destination, offering unique experiences and luxury accommodations.
• Local families, like the Lamastus and Peréz families, provide tours and tastings, enhancing the coffee culture in the region.
This surge in specialty coffee prices reflects a broader trend of luxury goods gaining popularity. As coffee enthusiasts seek unique flavors and stories, Panama's reputation as a coffee haven continues to grow, attracting tourists and connoisseurs alike. The region's charm remains intact, promising a bright future for both coffee and tourism.
Enjoying the read? Subscribe for free to one of the fastest-growing newsletters and get weekly coffee news (TL;DR updates) delivered right to your inbox.