Best of Panama 2024: A Journey Through Coffee Excellence
Best of Panama 2024
Introduction
The Best of Panama 2024 coffee competition stands as a pinnacle of excellence in the coffee world. This esteemed event brings together coffee enthusiasts, producers, and connoisseurs to celebrate the finest coffee beans Panama has to offer. With a rich history of setting global coffee trends, the Best of Panama continues to elevate the standards of quality and innovation in the industry.
The History of Best of Panama
Origins and Evolution
The Best of Panama coffee competition began in 1996, initiated by the Specialty Coffee Association of Panama (SCAP). The aim was to showcase the exceptional quality of Panamanian coffee and create a platform for local producers to gain international recognition.
Milestones Over the Years
Since its inception, the competition has seen numerous milestones, including the discovery of the Geisha variety in 2004, which transformed Panama into a global coffee sensation. Each year, the event grows in prestige, attracting a larger audience and higher caliber of entries.
Significance of Best of Panama 2024
Global Impact
The Best of Panama has significantly influenced global coffee trends. Winning coffees often fetch record prices at auctions, setting benchmarks for quality and flavor.
Influence on Coffee Industry
The competition has driven innovations in coffee cultivation and processing, encouraging producers worldwide to experiment and push the boundaries of quality.
Best of Panama 2024 Overview
Key Dates and Schedule of the Best of Panama 2024
The 2024 edition took place from May 27 to June 8, 2024, featuring a packed schedule of cupping sessions, judging panels, and networking events.
Categories and Awards Best of Panama 2024
Awards will be given in three main categories, Geisha Natural, Geisha Washed, and Varietals. Each category will honor the top three coffees with gold, silver, and bronze trophies.
Renowned Producers and Farms
Legendary Names
Notable producers such as Hacienda La Esmeralda, Finca Hartmann, and Lamastus Family Estates have consistently showcased exceptional coffees at the competition.
Emerging Talents
Newer farms like Finca Carmen and Altieri Coffee are making a name for themselves, pushing the boundaries of coffee excellence with innovative practices.
Unique Coffee Varieties Best of Panama 2024
Geisha: The Star
Geisha remains the most celebrated variety, known for its floral and fruity notes, and commanding the highest prices.
Varietals Best of Panama 2024
Varieties like Pacamara, Chiroso, and Catuai also shine at the competition, each offering unique flavor profiles that delight judges and buyers alike.
Judging Criteria
Evaluation Process
Judges evaluate coffees based on aroma, flavor, aftertaste, acidity, body, balance, and overall impression. Each coffee undergoes rigorous cupping sessions to ensure fair and accurate scoring.
Importance of Cupping
Cupping is essential to the evaluation process, allowing judges to experience the full sensory profile of each coffee. This method ensures that only the best beans are recognized and awarded.
Best of Panama winners of 2024
Geisha Natural Best Of Panamá Winning Lots 2024
Geisha Natural from Lamastus Family Estates / Wilford Lamastus scored the first place.
Geisha Natural Satori lot from Altieri Specialty Coffee scored the third place.
Geisha Washed Best of Panama Winners of 2024
Geisha Washed from Adaura Coffee / Finca Loreyne by the producer Marcus Duran won the first place.
Geisha Nuguo washed from the producer Jose Pocho Gallardo from Finca Nuguo / Café Gallardo earn the third place.
Results of the Best Of Panama 2024
Geisha Natural Best Of Panama 2024 Results
| Position | Code | Score | Lot Name | Producer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | L620 | 95.13 | ELIDA GEISHA NATURAL TORRE | LAMASTUS FAMILY ESTATES |
| 2 | L694 | 95.00 | CARMEN GEISHA ESPECIAL NATURAL | CARMEN ESTATES BY PANAMA RED CARMEN CAFÉ TRADING, S. A. |
| 3 | L604 | 94.98 | ALTIERI GEISHA SATORI DFC MIMA ESTATE | ALTIERI FAMILY |
| 4 | L675 | 94.94 | PRINCESA CARMEN GEISHA ESPECIAL NATURAL | CARMEN ESTATES BY PANAMA RED CARMEN CAFÉ TRADING, S. A. |
| 5 | L673 | 94.88 | LA ROCA FINCA SOPHIA | SOPHIA ESTATE PANAMA |
| 6 | L677 | 94.83 | AMARU | MOUNT TOTUMAS COFFEE |
| 7 | L660 | 94.80 | ABSOLU ADAURA FINCA LORAYNE | MARCUS DURÁN |
| 8 | L602 | 94.75 | MR LUIS | SANTAMARÍA COFFEE ESTATES |
Geisha Washed Best Of Panama 2024 Results
| Position | Code | Score | Lot Name | Producer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | J913 | 95.50 | KAISEN FINCA LORAYNE | MARCUS DURAN |
| 2 | J909 | 95.13 | OLYMPUS FINCA SOPHIA | SOPHIA ESTATE PANAMA |
| 3 | J997 | 94.63 | NUGUO WASHED | CAFÉ GALLARDO |
| 4 | J992 | 94.50 | ELIDA GEISHA WASHED TORRE | LAMASTUS FAMILY ESTATES |
| 5 | J916 | 94.25 | C5 TIERRA BLANCA | TIERRA BLANCA COFFEE PLANTATION INC. |
| 6 | J912 | 94.13 | STELLAR AMBER GEISHA | FINCA LOS CENIZOS |
| 7 | J928 | 94.00 | ESMERALDA JARAMILLO GEISHA WASHED | HACIENDA LA ESMERALDA, S. A. |
| 8 | J945 | 93.88 | ESMERALDA CAÑAS VERDES GEISHA WASHED | HACIENDA LA ESMERALDA, S. A. |
Varietals Best Of Panama 2024 Results
| Position | Code | Score | Lot Name | Owner |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | A382 | 94.13 | BLACK MOON CONSTELLATION CHIROSO BLACK MOON FARM | HUNTER TEDMAN |
| 2 | A333 | 91.88 | SEMPER DILECTIO | MARIO FONSECA JILGUEROS HOLDING, INC / MIL CUMBRES |
| 3 | A395 | 91.75 | PACAMARA LAVADO FERYEN ESTATE | FERYEN ESTATE |
| 4 | A389 | 91.63 | CARMEN CATUAI GRAN RESERVA ESPECIAL NATURAL | CARMEN ESTATES BY PANAMA RED CARMEN CAFÉ TRADING, S. A. |
| 5 | A334 | 91.50 | ESMERALDA EL VELO LAURINA NATURAL | HACIENDA LA ESMERALDA, S. A. |
| 6 | A300 | 91.38 | ALTIERI TYPICA ETHEREAL DF MIMA ESTATE | ALTIERI FAMILY |
| 7 | A304 | 91.25 | SANTOS PACAMARA WHITE STALLION | SANTOS CAFÉ PANAMÁ |
| 8 | A326 | 91.13 | DB MAGAROGIPE CM 01 BELLA VISTA CAFÉ DON BENJIE | STEFAN MÜLLER |
Impact on Local Communities
Economic Benefits
The competition brings significant economic benefits to local communities, with winning producers often experiencing increased demand and higher prices for their beans.
Social and Environmental Contributions
Beyond economic gains, the competition promotes sustainable practices and supports social initiatives, improving the quality of life for farmers and their families.
Sustainability Efforts
Eco-friendly Practices
Producers are increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices, such as organic farming, water conservation, and waste management, to ensure the long-term health of their farms and the environment.
Future Goals
The competition aims to further enhance sustainability by encouraging innovation in farming and processing methods that minimize environmental impact.
Market Trends Influenced by Best of Panama 2024
Specialty Coffee Boom
The Best of Panama has played a crucial role in the global rise of specialty coffee, with consumers seeking out high-quality, unique coffees.
Rise of Direct Trade
Direct trade has become more popular, with buyers forming closer relationships with producers to ensure transparency and fair compensation.
How to Participate
For Producers
Producers interested in participating must submit their best coffees for evaluation. The competition provides a valuable opportunity to gain international recognition and connect with buyers.
For Buyers and Enthusiasts
Buyers and enthusiasts can participate by attending the event, bidding in auctions, and networking with top producers and industry experts.
International Recognition
Global Media Coverage
The competition garners extensive media coverage, with reports highlighting the winning coffees and their producers, further boosting their reputation.
Awards and Honors
Winning at the Best of Panama brings numerous accolades and honors, enhancing the prestige of both the producers and their coffees.
Future Prospects of Best of Panama
Anticipated Trends
Future editions are expected to see more innovative processing methods and a greater emphasis on sustainability and quality.
Innovations in Coffee Processing
New processing techniques, such as anaerobic fermentation and carbonic maceration, are likely to be showcased, pushing the boundaries of flavor and quality.
Personal Experiences and Stories
Insights from Judges
Judges often share their experiences and insights, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the rigorous evaluation process and what makes a coffee truly exceptional.
Stories from Producers
Producers’ stories offer a glimpse into the passion and dedication that goes into creating award-winning coffees, highlighting their challenges and triumphs.
FAQs
What is the Best of Panama competition?
The Best of Panama is an annual coffee competition that showcases the finest coffees from Panamanian producers, setting global standards for quality.
When and where is the Best of Panama 2024 taking place?
The Best of Panama 2024 will be held from May 28-June 8 in Boquete, Panama.
How are the coffees judged in the competition?
Coffees are judged based on aroma, flavor, aftertaste, sweetness, acidity, body, balance, and overall impression through cupping sessions.
What are the main categories in the competition?
The main categories include Geisha Natural, Geisha Washed and Varietals, with awards for the top three coffees in each category.
How does the competition benefit local communities?
The competition brings economic benefits, promotes sustainable practices, and supports social initiatives, improving the quality of life for local farmers.
Can international buyers participate in the event?
Yes, international buyers can attend the event, participate in auctions, and network with producers and industry experts.
Conclusion
The Best of Panama 2024 was an extraordinary event, celebrating the pinnacle of coffee excellence. With its rich history, global influence, and commitment to quality and sustainability, this competition continues to shape the future of the coffee industry. Whether you are a producer, buyer, or enthusiast, the Best of Panama offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the best coffees in the world and connect with the passionate individuals who make it all possible.
