Specialty coffee from Panama

Panama is a remarkable destination for specialty coffee lovers, known for producing high-quality coffees with distinctive flavors and a unique character. Coffee from Panama is globally appreciated for its finesse, with complex aromatic profiles that include floral, fruity notes and well-balanced acidity. Grown in the country's mountainous regions, Panama coffee benefits from volcanic soils and a favorable climate, giving it an unmistakable taste.

The history of coffee in Panama

Coffee cultivation in Panama began in the 19th century, and today the country is recognized as one of the world’s most important specialty coffee producers. The Boquete region is particularly famous for its exceptional coffee quality, especially rare and valuable varieties like Geisha.

Coffee-producing regions in Panama

Panama has several coffee-growing regions that are known for producing fine, flavorful coffees:

• Boquete: Located in the Chiriquí province, Boquete is renowned for its floral and fruity coffees, with elegant acidity and a well-defined body.
• Volcán: This mountainous region offers coffees with notes of chocolate, fruit, and a sweet finish, appreciated for their complexity.
• Bocas del Toro: The Bocas del Toro island region produces coffees with a lighter profile, with tropical fruit notes and delicate acidity.

Coffee varieties from Panama

Panama is known for cultivating rare and high-quality coffee varieties such as:

• Geisha: Considered one of the world’s most valuable and appreciated coffee varieties, Geisha is grown in Panama’s mountainous regions and offers a complex flavor with fruit, floral notes, and well-balanced acidity.
• Catuai: A popular variety in Panama, Catuai produces coffees with a full body and flavors of nuts and chocolate.

Coffee processing methods in Panama

In Panama, farmers use various processing methods to achieve distinct flavor profiles:

• Wet Processing: Used in most regions, this method enhances the acidity and sweetness of the coffee, resulting in a clean and balanced drink.
• Natural Processing: In warmer regions, natural processing helps achieve a fuller body and more complex flavors of fruit and chocolate.

Flavors and taste profiles of coffee from Panama

Coffee from Panama stands out for its aromatic complexity. Some of the most famous flavors and profiles include:

• Boquete: Floral and fruity aromas with elegant acidity and a well-defined body.
• Volcán: Notes of chocolate, fruit, and a sweet finish with excellent complexity.
• Bocas del Toro: Tropical fruit and delicate acidity.

Benefits and sustainability

Panama supports sustainable farming practices and environmental protection. In many regions, organic farming and fair trade are emphasized, helping protect the environment and improve the livelihoods of local farmers.

Brewing recommendations

Coffee from Panama can be brewed in a variety of ways to highlight the best characteristics of each region:

• For espresso: Coffee from Boquete, with floral and fruity notes, is ideal for espresso, offering a balanced taste and complex aroma.
• For filter: Coffee from Volcán, with chocolate and fruit notes, is perfect for filter brewing.
• For roasting: Coffee from Bocas del Toro, with tropical fruit and delicate acidity, can be lightly roasted to enhance its natural sweetness.