Geisha Coffee Beans: The Elite of Specialty Coffee

Specialty coffee is a world of its own, and it offers unique and delicious flavours that can delight even the most discerning palates. One of the most highly sought-after and prized varieties of coffee is the Geisha coffee beans. These little beans pack a big punch when it comes to flavour and rarity.

In this post, we will explore the mysterious world of Geisha coffee beans. We’ll look at where they come from, how they taste, and why they’re so expensive. We’ll also examine their history of success in coffee competitions and why we think you’ll love our Cafédirect’s Geishas. So, grab a cup of coffee (not necessarily a Geisha one) and let’s get started!

Picture of cherry coffee beans
Photo by Michael Burrows

The Story of Geisha Coffee Beans

These beans were first discovered in the 1930s in the Boquete region of Panama. A coffee farmer named Gesha brought them to the region from Ethiopia. The beans quickly became known for their unique flavour profile, which was unlike any other coffee bean in the world. Today, Geisha beans are grown in a variety of countries, including Panama, Ethiopia, Colombia, and Costa Rica.

Geishas Around the World

They are grown in several countries, each with its own unique set of growing conditions. In Panama, the beans are grown at high elevations in the cool, misty mountains. In Ethiopia, they are grown in the lush, tropical rainforests. In Colombia and Costa Rica, they are grown in the rich, volcanic soil. Each of these growing conditions creates a unique flavour profile for the beans. However, growing Geisha coffee beans is not without its difficulties. The beans are highly susceptible to disease and pests, and they require meticulous care and attention to produce a high-quality crop.

The Flavour Profile of Geisha Beans

Geisha coffee beans are known for their unique and complex flavour profile. They typically have notes of jasmine, bergamot, and stone fruit, with a delicate and nuanced acidity. The beans are often described as having a tea-like quality, with a light and floral aroma. They are also known for their exceptional balance and sweetness, making them a favourite among coffee connoisseurs.

Geisha Beans in Coffee Competition

Geishas have a long history of success in coffee competitions, including the Cup of Excellence. They have consistently placed in the top ranks and have even won the top prize in several editions. This is a testament to the exceptional quality of the beans and the skill of the farmers who grow them.

Interesting Facts

  • Geishas are considered one of the most expensive and rare varieties of coffee in the world.
  • The beans are highly sought-after by coffee roasters and can fetch a high price at auction.
  • In 2018, a lot of Geisha coffee beans grown by Hacienda La Esmeralda in Panama sold for $601 per pound, setting a new world record for the highest price ever paid for a lot of coffee at auction.
  • Geisha coffee beans only make up a small percentage of the overall coffee production in the countries where they are grown.
  • Geisha coffee beans have a very low yield, making them even more scarce and valuable.
  • Some coffee enthusiasts consider Geisha to be the “champagne of coffee” due to their unique flavour profile and high price point.
  • The name “Geisha” is not related to the famous Japanese entertainers, but rather it is named after the coffee variety Gesha, which was the first discovered in Ethiopia.

Why You’ll Love Cafédirect’s Geisha Coffee Beans

At Cafédirect, we take great pride in sourcing only the highest quality coffee beans from around the world. Our Geisha beans are no exception. Hand-picked and expertly roasted, our beans are sure to delight your senses with their unique and delicious flavour profile. We invite you to try our Geisha coffee beans for yourself and taste the difference that quality makes.

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