Documental café de Panamá - Geisha, una historia de altura

Summary

This transcript shares the journey of Panama's coffee industry, highlighting the country’s rise from obscurity to being recognized as one of the best coffee producers in the world. The speaker discusses the challenges faced in improving the coffee’s quality, including the discovery of the Geisha variety and Panama's unique geography and climate, which contribute to its exceptional coffee. Over the course of 20 years, the industry has grown, with Panama becoming known for producing high-quality, exotic coffees. The narrative also touches on the role of the coffee culture, baristas, and the impact of Panama’s coffee on the global market, including the prestigious auctions where the finest beans fetch record prices.

Takeaways

• 😀 Panama's coffee is globally recognized as one of the best due to its ideal geography, climate, and altitude for cultivation.
• 😀 In the 1990s, Panama's coffee was relatively unknown, with prices as low as 60 cents per pound, which led to a crisis for local farmers.
• 😀 The establishment of the Specialty Coffee Association of Panama in 1995 helped elevate the country's coffee quality and attract international buyers.
• 😀 Panama’s coffee production shifted towards higher altitudes after realizing that altitude significantly influences the coffee’s flavor profile.
• 😀 Geisha coffee, a unique variety discovered in Panama, became highly sought after after being introduced in international competitions in 2004.
• 😀 Panama pioneered the concept of micro-lots, allowing small batches of coffee to be sold directly to niche international markets.
• 😀 The volcanic region of Barú, with its microclimates and biodiversity, plays a crucial role in the quality of Panama’s coffee.
• 😀 The introduction of barista culture in Panama in the early 2000s has helped educate consumers and elevate the local coffee scene.
• 😀 Panama’s coffee industry has grown not only in quality but also in its cultural impact, with significant attention from younger, more adventurous coffee drinkers.
• 😀 Panama’s coffee is so highly regarded that it is even served in the Japanese Imperial House, showcasing the country’s global coffee influence.

Q & A

What makes Panama's coffee considered among the best in the world?

Panama's coffee is considered one of the best due to its unique geographical advantages, including the country's altitude, climate, and nature. These factors create an ideal environment for growing high-quality coffee, allowing Panama to produce exceptional coffee with distinctive flavors.

How did Panama's coffee industry change in the 1990s?

In the 1990s, Panama's coffee industry was virtually unknown internationally, with low coffee prices and limited exports. A significant turning point came in 1995 when the country began to explore better markets, improving coffee quality and focusing on higher altitudes, which greatly influenced the flavor of their coffee.

What role did the 'specialty coffee' trend play in Panama's coffee production?

The 'specialty coffee' trend, which emerged in the late 1980s and early 1990s, played a crucial role in Panama's coffee production by focusing on unique and higher-quality coffees. As international buyers began seeking out these specialty coffees, Panama started cultivating rare coffee varieties like Geisha, which further elevated its reputation.

Why did the Geisha coffee variety become so important in Panama's coffee industry?

Geisha coffee became pivotal because of its exceptional aroma and flavor, which stood out among other varieties. Discovered in Panama's Boquete region in the early 2000s, it gained international attention after winning competitions, leading to a sharp increase in its price and demand.

What challenges did Panama face when first growing Geisha coffee?

When Panama first started growing Geisha coffee in the 1960s, it was met with skepticism. The variety had a poor root system, low yield, and was seen as difficult to cultivate. Many thought it wouldn't be successful, but the perseverance of early pioneers helped bring this coffee to prominence.

How did Panama's coffee industry evolve after the 2004 Best Panama competition?

Following the 2004 Best Panama competition, the country's coffee industry experienced a major shift. Geisha coffee, in particular, gained attention and became highly sought after. This led to an increase in demand and prices, with Panama positioning itself as a top producer of high-quality, exotic coffee.

What role does the volcanic microclimate play in Panama's coffee production?

The volcanic microclimate in Panama, especially around the Barú Volcano, is critical for coffee cultivation. The specific temperature range and high altitude create ideal growing conditions that contribute to the distinctive flavors and high quality of Panama's coffee.

How does the coffee industry in Panama benefit from its natural biodiversity?

Panama's biodiversity, including its proximity to national parks, plays a significant role in the quality of its coffee. The diverse ecosystems surrounding the coffee plantations contribute to the overall health of the coffee plants, providing a natural balance that enhances flavor profiles.

What has been the impact of international buyers and markets on Panama's coffee industry?

International buyers, particularly from countries like Japan and South Korea, have significantly impacted Panama's coffee industry by seeking out the unique flavors of Geisha coffee. Their demand for high-quality, exotic coffee has helped Panama's coffee gain global recognition, establishing it as a premier coffee-producing country.

How does Panama's coffee industry cater to the growing global demand for specialty coffees?

Panama has capitalized on the global demand for specialty coffees by cultivating high-quality, rare varieties like Geisha. The industry has also embraced micro-lots and direct relationships with buyers, offering personalized coffee experiences and focusing on traceability and quality control.