A recent article stated that a coffee varietal known as Panama Esmeralda Especial Reserva is currently fetching $15 a cup at some United States coffee shops. The coffee, which is available at several locations near Portland, Oregon, is an extremely rare bean called a geisha varietal, and is highly regarded by coffee connoisseurs. According to one website, the bean is grown in Boquete, Panama, a region known for producing high quality coffee beans, and has consistently won taste competitions in Panama since its introduction. The bean is praised for its complex flavor structure, which according to a local roaster exhibits hints of “clementine, key lime, papaya, mango, bergamot, all spice, and high percentage cacao, with a champagne grape finish.” The bean is available in half pound bags that retail in the United States for $100, and make about 8 cups of coffee.
Unfortunately, the current state of the US economy may make it difficult for such an expensive product to remain appealing once the novelty wears off. Regardless of this, the high price point for exotic coffee advances Panama’s position, especially the Boquete region, as an established producer of smaller batched high quality coffee beans on the world market.
Sources:
Coffee shop sells coffee for $15 a cup (Kare11.com)
