FINCA HARTMANN, Panama (Washed)

Finca Hartmann is one of Panama’s landmark farms, located in the Santa Clara area of Renacimiento, Chiriquí Province, near the border with Costa Rica. The family’s story began with Alois Hartmann, born in Moravia, who emigrated to Panama in 1912. The farm was established in 1940 and is now managed by the family’s third generation, with Ratibor Hartmann at the helm. The Hartmann family is considered among the pioneers of specialty coffee in Panama, and Ratibor is also recognized as an exceptional cupper, involved in founding the Specialty Coffee Association of Panama.

The land borders a protected forest reserve connected to La Amistad National Park. Coffee grows in the shade of native tropical forest trees; the family does not cut down trees and continues to plant native species to keep the ecosystem healthy. The area is home to approximately 300 bird species, and the coffee is Bird Friendly certified. Our lot grows at an elevation of 1,300m, while the farm climbs the mountain to approximately 2,000m.

The variety is Caturra, a natural mutation of Bourbon, with a short, compact stature that has allowed for denser planting. As a direct descendant of Bourbon, Caturra is known for delicate, complex flavors, often floral and fruity. Finca Hartmann grows eight Arabica varieties (Catuai, Caturra, Maragogype, Pacamara, Typica, Bourbon, Pache, and Gesha), and Caturra is one of those that best shows in the cup how the elevation and volcanic soil of Chiriquí leave their mark on the flavor.

Washed processing involves picking ripe cherries, depulping and fermenting them, then washing them before drying. With no pulp or mucilage on the beans during drying, the process emphasizes clarity and precision, allowing the character of the variety and terroir to shine.

Finca Hartmann develops floral notes of peach, cherry, chocolate, and citrus, supported by a low-to-medium body, medium acidity, and medium sweetness. A clean, balanced cup that shows why the Hartmann family remains a landmark name in specialty coffee in Panama.