PALENZUELA | WASHED GEISHA

Producer: Manuel Barsallo Farm: Agricola Origin: Panama Region: Alto Jaramillo Varietal: Geisha Process: Washed Fermentation: Classic washed Altitude: 1,700 - 1,900 masl Tasting Notes: Orange, white nectarine, chamomile Manuel Barsallo has spent years immersed in almost every corner of specialty coffee. From cupping, roasting and education to green buying, processing and quality control, his journey has given him a unique perspective on what it takes to create truly exceptional coffee. Today, he works closely with some of Panama's most exciting producers, including Café Don Benjie and Agricola Geisha, while continuing to experiment with processing and develop coffees under his own name. Palenzuela Coffee Reserve brings that experience together with one of Panama's great coffee growing families. The Palenzuelas' journey into coffee began with Gonzalo and Yrma Palenzuela, who started Agricola Geisha after retirement. What began almost as a hobby became a serious pursuit of quality, with their farms in the highlands of Chiriquí eventually producing award winning Geisha and Pacamara. Manuel's involvement adds another layer to that story, bringing his experience in processing and sensory evaluation into the creation of distinctive small Geisha lots. Geisha in Panama is something special. Originally from Ethiopia eventually made its way through Africa and Central America, the variety found an extraordinary home in Panama's high elevation volcanic landscapes. Cool temperatures slow cherry maturation, while altitude, mist, rainfall and volcanic soils help create the incredible aromatic complexity the variety has become famous for. Panama ultimately brought the variety onto the world stage, establishing it as one of the most celebrated and sought after coffees in specialty coffee today. Recommended resting time before freezing: 14-20 days after roast.