What Is Gesha Coffee? Flavor, Origin, and Why It’s Prized

Gesha coffee is an Arabica coffee variety known for its delicate floral aromas and fruit-forward flavor. You may also see it spelled “Geisha.” Both spellings are used in coffee, and neither refers to a country or a processing method.

What does Gesha coffee taste like?

A well-grown Gesha can have jasmine-like florals, fruit notes, and a tea-like quality. The exact flavors depend on the growing conditions, processing, and roast. “Jasmine” on a tasting-notes list describes an aroma you might notice in the cup; it does not mean jasmine was added to the coffee.

Where does Gesha coffee come from?

Gesha traces its origins to Ethiopia. It became especially well known through coffees grown in Panama, but the variety is now grown in other coffee-producing countries, including Colombia. Each lot has its own character, so the country and the variety both matter when choosing a bag.

For another expression of the variety, explore Sava’s Laos Gesha, a washed coffee from Paksong with notes of jasmine, floral tea, and peach.

Why is Gesha prized?

Gesha can produce a particularly expressive cup when it is grown and handled well. Its reputation comes from those distinctive aromas and the care required to bring them through in the finished coffee. The name alone does not guarantee a great cup; the individual lot matters.

A Gesha from Buesaco, Colombia

Sava’s Colombia Buesaco Gesha is a washed coffee grown at 2,050 meters above sea level in Nariño, Colombia. Look for jasmine, pear, guava, and honeyed sweetness. A lighter roast helps bring its floral and fruit notes forward.

We roast this coffee to order in small batches in Atlanta. Explore Colombia Buesaco Gesha if you enjoy a bright, aromatic cup with a sweet finish.