Panama SHB Lerida Estate

Panama was the second leg of our recent journey through Central America. After flying into Panama City, we took a short drive to another airport for the connecting flight to David, the capital of Chiriqui province. The second flight was a bit smaller than the first, with maximum capacity of 25 people (including the pilot), a propeller, no beverage service, no room for a beverage if there was service, and, of course, plenty of turbulence. Needless to say I am not treasuring that experience, however upon arrival to this McDonald's-sized airport, there were rolling green hills as far as I could see, and a big van waiting to take us to the beautiful Finca Lerida Estate.

As we entered the long and perfectly manicured driveway, we passed rows and rows of coffee trees all standing in perfect formation, flawlessly lined up one behind the other. We proceeded to the entrance of the main lodge where we were greeted by the main coffee caretaker himself, Mr. John Collins, a proud, third-generation coffee farmer who is so excited by the outcome of his recent efforts to rebuild his beloved coffee estate. Finca Lerida has garnered many awards in the last few years including a first place win at the Specialty Coffee Association of Panama cupping competition in 2003.

We spent the next few days with John and his wife, Zoraida, receiving some genuine Panamanian hospitality complemented by a true Lerida coffee education. This intimate 45 hectare farm sits 6000 feet above sea level providing perfect conditions for growing coffee. After being wet milled on premises, it is fully sun dried - producing an extremely clean preparation. The cup is excellent! At first taste there is an initial sweetness, with a smooth and syrupy yet bright and lively feel. The consistent citrus and floral flavors throughout leave you satisfied but wanting more - a longing that the Collins family and their Lerida Estate can certainly fulfill.

Andrew Blyth and Richard Borg