Zorro & Estribi • The Harmony Geishas
When you visit Finca Santa Teresa on the slopes of Volcán Barú, it is evident that something unique is happening here. Not only do they strive to produce great coffee, but they prioritize the preservation of natural vegetation that grows abundantly on their land. This is rare to find, especially when the majority of coffee producers practice deforestation in order to produce as much coffee as possible, regardless of how it impacts the environment.
Aracelly Estribi (pictured center) the long time manager of Finca Santa Teresa, began sending us consistently outstanding samples of Panamanian Geishas, and I couldn’t find another word to describe their flavor other than simply “beautiful.” Although the impact of Biodiversity is nearly impossible to quantify, it is evident that it plays a role in the exceptionally vibrant fruit and floral tasting notes.
As I got to know them, I realized their unwavering dedication to biodiversity and sustainability was more extensive and impressive than I imagined. The farm in its entirety is almost 300 acres, beautifully decorated with lively streams and diverse types of flora. Only 30% of the land is farmed, and the producers have dedicated themselves to maintaining a harmonious balance between natural forest and farm land. Finca Santa Teresa sets a standard for social responsibility by remaining a haven for the toucans, hummingbirds, and quetzels that call this jungle their home. They have also enacted a reforestation program where seeds from their forest are planted in a nursery for eventual replanting, and organic matter from processing is reused as a natural compost and fertilizer. Zorro and Estribi capture the full range of beauty that can only be evident in a farm that prioritizes biodiversity of flora and fauna.
