Carmen Berries

Carmen Estate is a family owned business. They are sustainable coffee growers and very high quality green coffee exporters. In 1950 Efrain and Carmen Franceschi began cultivating arabica coffee varieties on their estates. Today their single estate and mill –beneficio- is managed by their sons and grandsons. It produces just 1,200 bags (60 kg each) of unique quality green coffee beans. It is located in Volcan Valley at an altitude of 1750 meters (5,600ft); latitude 8°49’25’’N; longitude 82°37’55’’W. The valley is considered the most important area in mountain and shade grown coffee plantations of The Baru Volcano region in Panama, Central America. This micro-region is heavily influenced by its proximity to both the Pacific and Atlantic Ocean. The cool, frost free nights typical of the area are coupled with dry, sun drenched days which together create optimal growing conditions.

 We were the winning bidder on 2 Esmeralda lots this year that we felt cupped as well as lots selling for much, much more. In fact, our lot was the favorite when we tasted all of them. Our cupping notes include passion fruit, peach, and honeysuckle. Perfectly sweet and balanced, just as we expected.

Our 2007 crop received a '94' rating from Ken Davids of Coffeereview.com, who noted: "High-toned, intense aroma with striking lemon, chocolate and menthol notes and a hint of flowers. In the cup softly and sweetly acidy with a lovely balance and distinct bittersweet chocolate and lemon notes. Superb finish: rich, crisp, saturated with a dry chocolate."