In 2016, we took our first trip down to Panama as we set out to explore some of the best coffees from the world’s top producers. It was on this trip that we first met Wilford Lamastus of the renowned Lamastus Family Estates. Wilford, one of the kindest and most generous people you will ever meet, took time out of his very busy harvest schedule to personally drive us around in his pickup truck on a tour of their farms. We finished the day in Elida’s exquisite cupping lab tasting the fresh lots from their three farms. 

Family-owned by the Lamastus family since 1918, Elida Estate is nestled in the Alto Quiel region of Boquete, Panama. The farm spans a total of 65 hectares, with 30 hectares dedicated to coffee cultivation and 35 hectares preserved as a forest reserve. Elida Estate boasts a mix of Geisha, Catuai, and Typica varieties. The soil is deep, rich, sandy-loam and the average yearly precipitation clocks in at an impressive 2,400 mm. The farm lies at elevations ranging from 1,670 to 1,950 meters, providing a cool climate that extends the maturation time of the coffee beans. The Bajareque cloud mist during the dry season keeps the land cool and moist, contributing to the unique flavor profile.

Over half of Elida Estate lies within the Volcan Baru National Park, a protected ecological reserve. Hunting has been prohibited on the farm for decades. The combination of high elevation, volcanic soil, and misty conditions results in truly exceptional, record breaking cups. This past August Elida broke the coffee price record when a lot sold for $10,013/kg at the Best of Panama Auction.