The Legacy of Geisha: A Journey through Cloning and Cultivation
When you think of Geisha coffee, what comes to mind? For many, we may immediately think of Panama, and with it, the anticipation of one of the most floral and flavour forward expressions a coffee can be.
But at ONA Coffee, the journey of Geisha’s clones is about more than just the variety and its vast sensory profile. It's a story of how this cultivar redefined what coffee could be—and the people and paths that made it possible. Our latest Reserve Box, Clones of Geisha, explores this narrative by showcasing three Geisha strains from three different farms—Tributos del Ota, Las Margaritas, and Corazón de Jesús. Through these, we see how each farm's unique environment influences the genetic mutations of Geisha coffee.
The Origins of Geisha
Geisha coffee—often referred to as the crown jewel of specialty coffee—is a variety native to the Gori Geisha forests of Ethiopia. Its distinct floral aroma, reminiscent of jasmine, vibrant acidity, and tea-like body have long set it apart from other coffee varieties. However, Geisha’s rise to fame only began in the early 2000s when Panama’s Hacienda La Esmeralda introduced it to the global stage, stunning coffee connoisseurs everywhere.
Our fascination with Geisha lies in its ability to tell a story with every sip. Each cup carries the history of its Ethiopian origins, the innovation of farmers who have nurtured it, and the unique terroir that shapes its flavour.
Why Costa Rica: A Natural Home for Geisha Clones
While Geisha’s story began in Ethiopia, its journey didn’t stop there. The coffee’s exceptional quality and unique characteristics spurred interest from coffee producers around the world. Costa Rica, in particular, has emerged as an ideal place to study and preserve the Geisha cultivar. Thanks to the pioneering work of the Centre for Tropical Agricultural Research and Higher Education (CATIE) and local producers, Costa Rica has become a hub for cultivating and refining Geisha clones, ensuring that its distinct qualities are preserved across generations.
In fact, Costa Rica was home to “Accession T2722” brought from Ethiopia before being carried to Panama by Don Pachi in the 1960s. From there, Geisha spread throughout Panama and the world. Depending on where the seeds come from, the plants behave differently based on local conditions. By having access to this original T2722 selection and the scientific resources at CATIE, Costa Rica became the perfect place to conduct this research.
Additionally, Costa Rica’s rich volcanic soils, diverse microclimates, and innovative agricultural practices provide an ideal environment for cultivating Geisha clones. The three Geishas in this release all trace their roots back to the original T2722 seed stock. However, through adaptation to different environments, CATIE has found that each of these ‘selections’ carries genetic differences, making them behave and taste differently. For example, the Taka ‘1950’ selection from Corazón de Jesús ripens much later than other Geisha selections, and this characteristic persists regardless of altitude.
The ability to select, track, and scientifically test these Geisha selections in Costa Rica has allowed us to explore the complexity and newfound diversity within this remarkable varietal.
The Science of Cloning: Preserving a Legend
As demand for Geisha soared, so did the need to protect and preserve its exceptional quality. In this context, cloning is a method of preserving the best traits of a coffee plant. By carefully selecting mother plants with exceptional qualities and propagating them, farmers can ensure the consistency and quality of the Geisha variety.
Sam Corra, ONA’s Director of Coffee, recalls his first experience working with Geisha clones: “I was amazed by the potential these plants held. Each clone was so different on the cupping table and demonstrates how nature and nurture can have such a big impact on one varietal”. Sam’s work has focused on understanding how Geisha clones can thrive across different environments while maintaining their unique character.
A Special Release: Celebrating Costa Rican Geisha Clones
We’re honoured to present a Reserve Box featuring Geisha clones from Costa Rica, celebrating the farmers, the land, and the innovation behind these extraordinary coffees. Each box highlights the unique terroir of Costa Rica—from the floral elegance of Tarrazú to the vibrant acidity of its volcanic soils. This release invites you to explore the depth and complexity of Geisha clones, a testament to years of dedication, collaboration, and respect for coffee’s heritage.
A Cup with a Story
When you sip a Geisha from this collection, you’re not just tasting exceptional flavour—you’re connecting with the stories of the producers who’ve nurtured this coffee. From its origins as a game-changing variety to the passion of those who bring it to life, each cup celebrates the power of collaboration and the evolution of what specialty coffee can be.
