Hacienda La Esmeralda

Hacienda La Esmeralda is the epicenter of the rediscovery of the Geisha variety and the subsequent fascination the Specialty Coffee industry has had with the variety. In 2004, the Peterson family decided to separate lots based on their location on the farm, and kept them separated throughout processing. By doing so, the Peterson's were able to isolate the cup profile of the Geisha variety, experiencing the juicy acidity and multi-layered aromatics that Geisha has to offer. While common practice today, this decision to separate lots was progressive and experimental at the time.

Due to the high premium these coffees garner during auction, Hacienda La Esmeralda is able to pay its harvesters three times the typical wage, ensuring a good standard of living as well as the highest quality work.

By carefully dividing each lot as it is picked, specific clusters of trees are targeted during the harvest, building unique microlots for the most quality-conscious buyers. La Esmeralda's industry-leading environmental sustainability practices and support for employees and their families have made us proud to partner with the Peterson family for many years.

The Mario 51 micro-lot is grown at one of the highest elevations at Hacienda La Esmeralda's Jaramillo farm. With cool temperatures, high humidity, and massive shade trees that have been standing for ages, Jaramillo is the perfect location for making the aromatics of the Geisha variety sing. Mario 51 features aromas of jasmine, honeysuckle, and orange blossom, with fruit flavors of peach, apricot, raspberry and limeade. Honeycomb sweetness, a bright acidity, and silky mouthfeel finish with an aftertaste that reminds us of a fine oolong tea.

The Porton 5N micro-lot comes from El Velo, Hacienda La Esmeralda's newest farm. Purchased in 2012, El Velo is 50 hectares large with coffee planted from 1,650 - 1,950 meters above sea level. The land continues up the mountain to 2900 masl, where there is a nature preserve home to the famous Quetzal and other endangered birds. These high altitudes and rich volcanic soil are ideal for growing the Geisha variety. Porton 5N features intensely floral aromatics including jasmine, white rose, and orange blossom, with fruit flavors of lychee, bergamot, and mango. Champagne and vanilla bean sweetness are complemented by vibrant acidity and silky mouthfeel.