Origin
Volcán, Panama
Volcán, Panama, is a prestigious coffee hub with a rich history rooted in its volcanic terroir, high altitudes, and diverse influences. Introduced in the late 19th century by European settlers, mainly from Spain and Italy, the Chiriquí Province quickly became central to the coffee industry due to its rich volcanic soil and cool microclimate. The Talamanca mountain range and Barú Volcano contribute to the region’s exceptional coffee quality, allowing cherries to mature slowly, enhancing sweetness and complexity.
By the mid-20th century, coffee production in Volcán expanded with investments from immigrants, establishing larger farms and introducing new varieties like Caturra and Catuai. The 1990s specialty coffee boom shifted the focus toward quality, culminating in 2004 when Hacienda La Esmeralda's Geisha coffee won awards and set high auction prices. This success inspired Volcán’s farmers, including the Janson family, to cultivate Geisha, known for its floral and citrus profile. Estates like Janson Coffee pioneered high-scoring Geisha and micro-lots, elevating Volcán’s reputation.
Today, Volcán is celebrated for its sought-after specialty coffees, such as Geisha and Pacamara, which command premium prices. Farmers have embraced agroforestry, shade-grown cultivation, and innovative processing methods to enhance coffee quality. Unlike the more commercial Boquete, Volcán is renowned for its rare micro-lots and ongoing innovation. The region’s volcanic soil and high-altitude climate yield denser, sweeter beans, while dedicated farmers drive advancements in production. Geisha coffee from Volcán regularly sets auction records, solidifying its status in the specialty coffee scene. Volcán’s coffee story reflects immigrant adaptation and innovation, evolving from humble beginnings to a prestigious coffee hub, producing complex and prized coffees worldwide.
