Geisha – Washed – SCA 85.75

About This Coffee

The Geisha Washed Process represents the classic expression of coffee’s most celebrated varietal. Originating in the Gesha village of Ethiopia and achieving legendary status in Panama, Geisha has become synonymous with exceptional quality and distinctive cup characteristics.

This lot has been meticulously washed-processed to showcase the varietal’s inherent qualities in their purest form. SCA-certified cuppers have scored this coffee at 85.75 points, confirming the exceptional quality that discerning coffee enthusiasts seek in a classic Geisha.

Tasting Profile

The washed process allows Geisha’s distinctive characteristics to shine without interference. This results in a clean, complex cup that exemplifies why the varietal has achieved near-mythical status in specialty coffee.

Acidity: Citric and refined, with lemongrass and citrus notes
Body: Medium, clean and elegant
Sweetness: Elegant and sweet, featuring sugar cane, panela and white chocolate
Finish: Sweet and clean, with lingering floral aromatics

Tasting Notes: Floral fragrance, sweet aroma, sugar cane, white chocolate, panela, lemongrass, citrus

The Washed Process

Washed processing, also known as wet processing, is the method of choice for showcasing a coffee’s inherent varietal characteristics. After harvesting, the coffee cherries are depulped, fermented to remove remaining mucilage, and then washed clean before drying.

This meticulous process produces:

• Maximum clarity and cleanliness
• Bright, defined acidity
• Pure expression of varietal characteristics
• Consistent, repeatable results
• Delicate, nuanced flavors

For Geisha, washed processing is considered the gold standard – allowing the varietal’s distinctive floral and aromatic qualities to express themselves without the fruit-forward characteristics that other processing methods introduce.

Origin & Terroir

Region: El Águila, Valle del Cauca, Colombia
Farm: Finca Casa Azul, vereda Llanogrande
Varietal: Geisha (gesha)
Altitude: 1820 – 1870 meters above sea level
Soil: Volcanic, mineral-rich

The Geisha Story

Geisha (also spelled Gesha) originated in the Gesha village of southwestern Ethiopia. The varietal gained international recognition in 2004 when a Panamanian Geisha won the Best of Panama competition with unprecedented cupping scores and auction prices.

Since then, Geisha has been cultivated in select regions worldwide, always commanding premium prices due to its distinctive cup profile, low yields, and demanding cultivation requirements. Colombian-grown Geisha has proven particularly successful, combining the varietal’s inherent qualities with Colombia’s ideal growing conditions.

SCA Score: 85.75

This coffee has been evaluated by Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) certified cuppers and scored 85.75 points out of 100, placing it in the exceptional specialty-grade category (85-89.99 points). This score reflects the coffee’s complexity, balance, and distinctive varietal characteristics.

Brewing Recommendations

Geisha’s delicate profile rewards careful brewing that emphasizes clarity and aromatics.

Pour Over (V60, Chemex) – Optimal for clarity and floral notes
AeroPress (inverted) – Highlights sweetness and body
Siphon – Showcases aromatics and complexity

Suggested Parameters:

Ratio: 1:15 to 1:16 (lighter ratio emphasizes delicacy)
Temperature: 90-93°C (lower temperature preserves floral notes)
Time: 2:30-3:30 minutes
Grind: Medium-fine
Water: Low mineral content (50-100 ppm TDS) for maximum clarity

Pro Tip: Geisha’s aromatic complexity is best appreciated when the coffee cools slightly. Allow the cup to rest for a few minutes after brewing to experience the full evolution of flavors.

Why Don Gildo

• Specialty grade: 85.75 points on the SCA scale
• Geisha varietal, washed process
• Roasted at origin in Colombia and shipped from Miami

Ideal For

Specialty coffee connoisseurs | Those seeking the classic Geisha experience | Coffee professionals and cuppers | Exploring prestigious coffee varietals | Special occasions and thoughtful gifts | Pour over and manual brewing enthusiasts | Anyone who appreciates delicate, complex coffees

Washed Geisha Coffee: Frequently Asked Questions

What is washed Geisha coffee?
Geisha (also spelled Gesha) is a rare coffee varietal known for its floral, tea-like cup. “Washed” means the fruit is removed and the beans are fermented and rinsed before drying. The result is a clean, bright cup that lets Geisha’s aromatics stand out.

Why is Geisha coffee so special?
Geisha has low yields and needs high altitude and careful farming, but rewards it with a distinctive floral aroma, delicate citrus acidity and a sweet finish. This lot scored 85.75 points on the SCA scale, well within specialty grade. Learn more in our guide: What is specialty coffee?

How should I brew it?
Pour-over methods such as V60 or Chemex bring out its clarity best. A good starting point is 15 g of coffee for 250 ml of water at 92–96 °C. See our home brewing guide for step-by-step recipes.

Where does it come from?
It is grown at 1,820–1,870 meters above sea level in El Águila, Valle del Cauca, Colombia, roasted at origin in Colombia and shipped from Miami.