Organization: Coffee Klatch, San Dimas, California
Coffee: Esmeralda Especial Panama
Reviewed: September 2007
Overall Rating: 94 points
Roast (Agtron): Medium (51/66)
Estimated Price:
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Origin: Boquete growing region, western Panama

Notes: Coffee from trees of the botanical variety "Gesha" or "Geisha" grown on farmer Price Peterson's Hacienda La Esmeralda in Panama has for the last several years consistently broken records paid for a green coffee: A 2007 lot sold at auction this for an extraordinary $130 per pound. This lot of Gesha is from the same fields, crop and variety as the record-breaking auction lot but was sold outside auction. With its bold, boat-shaped beans and distinctive floral and chocolate cup, the Esmeralda Panama Gesha continues one of the world's most unique coffees. Coffee Klatch is an award-winning small-batch roasting company in the Los Angeles area whose resident barista and trainer, Heather Perry, won both the 2003 and 2007 United States Barista Championships brewing Coffee Klatch espresso blends. Visit www.klatchroasting.com or call 877-455-2824 for more information.

Blind Assessment: High-toned, intense aroma with striking lemon, chocolate and menthol notes and a hint of flowers. In the cup softly and sweetly acidy with a lovely balance and distinct bittersweet chocolate and lemon notes. Superb finish: rich, crisp, saturated with a dry chocolate.

Who should drink it: A quiet, balanced version of the dramatic Esmeralda profile.

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