Geisha


Geisha is a controversial varietal when found in Central America. Extremely rare at the moment, although expect to see lots in the coming years. Made famous around five years ago by Panama Hasienda La Esmerelda, and the best of panama competition. 

  • Varietal: Geisha (or Gesha)
  • Origin: Ethiopia
  • Grows Best at: post 1,500 metres above sea level
  • Type: Heirloom
  • Prevalent in: Ethiopia, Costa Rica and Panama
  • Predominant Colour: Red
  • Fruit size: Standard
  • Leaf Characteristics: Elongated thin and long
  • Plant Characteristics: Tall thin, elongated leaves 

Geisha is a somewhat controversial varietal when found in Central America. Extremely rare at the moment, although expect to see lots in the coming years. Made famous many years ago by Panama Hasienda La Esmerelda, and the best of panama competition. 

Little known it was originally introduced to Central America in Costa Rica (1953 est) not Panama as many think. Originally from a south western Ethiopian town of Gesha, its an heirloom varietal, that is low yielding thin and spindly branches open to strong winds, and pest friendly as they come (although resistant to coffee rust). The leaves are very long and thin too and grows very tall (if not a little gangly). 

Can grow and many altitudes, but anecdotal evidence shows this only shines at real big elevation (post 1,500 m.a.s.l.) lower altitude coffee tends to be of poorer quality than those from higher up.

Find out even more: World Coffee Research Arabica Coffee Varieties | Geisha

If we are currently roasting any Geisha lots, they will be listed below.