It is the Peterson family of Hacienda La Esmeralda, established in 1967, who set the course for Panama Geisha’s global prominence, irrevocably changing the coffee world. Initially driven by Geisha’s resistance to coffee leaf rust, they serendipitously uncovered its potential for exceptional cup quality when planted at the highest altitudes on their Jaramillo farm.
In 2004, enabled by their innovative cultivation method of lot separation based on altitude & microclimate, the Peterson family made history as Jaramillo Geisha broke all records for the highest price ever paid for coffee at the Best of Panama auction. This moment set the precedent for how exceptional coffee is now recognized & valued, ushering in an era of Panamanian coffee as an internationally coveted luxury & the flagbearer for variety-focused, terroir-driven production.
In the 2024 Best of Panama, two decades after their historic victory, they placed 7th & 8th in the Geisha Washed category, 10th in Geisha Natural, and 5th & 13th in Varietals—perpetuating their legacy & influence as iconic pioneers of Panama Geisha.
technical details
taste notes:
mango, jackfruit, honey, skettles
origin: panama
producer: peterson family
farm: el velo
variety: geisha
process: natural
