Coffee Intelligence Report

#002: Cotito — Source Dossier

Origin

Nestled in the highlands between the districts of Volcán and Renacimiento in western Panama, Cotito Coffee is cultivated in a remote mountain environment that rewards visitors with breathtaking landscapes and exceptional coffee.

The farm is located approximately 15 kilometers from Volcán on the road toward Río Sereno, followed by a rugged 5-kilometer ascent accessible only by four-wheel-drive vehicles.

Elevation

1,450–1,550 meters above sea level

This altitude provides ideal growing conditions for specialty Arabica coffee, allowing cherries to mature slowly and develop greater complexity, sweetness, and aromatic depth.

The Farm

Cotito Coffee spans 54 hectares, with approximately 8 hectares dedicated to coffee cultivation under a natural canopy of banana and plantain trees.

The farm currently maintains:

• Approximately 15,000 mature coffee trees in production

• More than 10,000 newly planted trees

• Diverse Arabica varieties grown together across the estate

The combination of rich volcanic soils, mountain climate, and natural shade contributes to the distinctive character of every harvest.

A Unique Terroir

One of the most remarkable features of the property is the presence of natural thermal springs. These mineral-rich waters emerge at temperatures ranging from 35°C to 45°C (95°F–113°F) and contribute to the fertility and vitality of the surrounding ecosystem.

Combined with the farm’s elevation, rainfall patterns, soil composition, and careful cultivation practices, this unique terroir creates coffees with exceptional complexity and balance.

Cup Profile

Cotito Coffee offers a dynamic sensory experience characterized by:

• Floral aromatics

• Citrus brightness

• Sweet fruit notes

• Herbal complexity

• Chocolate undertones

• Delicate fermented nuances

Each harvest expresses the unique interaction between varietal genetics, climate, soil minerals, elevation, and processing methods.

Sustainable Farming Practices

At Cotito Coffee, weed management is performed manually using brush cutters and machetes rather than herbicide-based systems.

As a result, the farm operates without the use of glyphosate-based herbicides, reflecting a commitment to responsible agricultural practices and environmental stewardship.

When necessary, targeted fungicide applications are used to protect coffee trees from coffee leaf rust (Hemileia vastatrix), one of the most significant diseases affecting coffee production worldwide.

Processing

The estate’s Arabica varieties are harvested together during the peak season and processed directly on the farm.

After harvesting, the cherries are:

1. Depulped

2. Washed

3. Carefully dried in on-site greenhouses

This controlled process helps preserve clarity, sweetness, and the distinctive character of the coffee.

Varieties

Caturra (Red & Yellow)

A natural mutation of Bourbon, Caturra is known for its excellent productivity and cup quality. It contributes bright citrus acidity, lemon-like notes, sweetness, and a balanced medium body.

Catuaí

Developed from a cross between Yellow Caturra and Mundo Novo, Catuaí is celebrated for its sweetness and versatility. Typical flavor notes include chocolate, caramel, honey, toasted almonds, and warming baking spices.

Catimor

A hybrid of Timor and Caturra, Catimor offers a distinctive profile with subtle herbal characteristics complemented by delicate fruit notes.

Typica

One of the foundational Arabica varieties, Typica has influenced many of the world’s most important coffee cultivars. It is prized for its elegance, floral aromatics, refined acidity, and layered fruit complexity.

Pacamara

Pacamara is renowned for producing extraordinary specialty coffees with a clean sweetness, floral aromatics, tropical fruit character, and remarkable cup complexity. Its large beans and expressive flavor profile make it one of the most sought-after varieties among coffee enthusiasts.

Fully Disclosed

At Panama Papers Coffee, every coffee is treated as a declassified file.

• No mystery sourcing.
• No vague origin stories.
• No hidden details.

Just exceptional Panamanian coffee, fully disclosed.