Gesha Coffee: A Legendary Coffee with Humble Beginnings
- Gina Cordoba
- Apr 1
- 3 min read

Gesha coffee, sometimes spelled "Geisha," has an extraordinary story that starts in the forests of Ethiopia. Originally found in the village of Gesha, this coffee variety quietly made its way to Central America decades ago, where it was planted and largely forgotten until it became the star of the specialty coffee world.
The real turning point for Gesha came when coffee producers in Panama showcased it to the world, winning top awards and grabbing the attention of roasters and coffee lovers globally. What made it so special? Its explosive floral aromas, complex fruit flavors, and tea-like elegance stood out like nothing else on the market. Since then, Gesha has become one of the most prized and talked-about coffees in the world, often seen in competitions and high-end cafes.
Summit Grounds’ Gesha: A Colombian Treasure

At Summit Grounds, we’re proud to bring you Gesha coffee straight from high-altitude farms in Colombia — where rich volcanic soil, crisp mountain air, and traditional farming methods come together to create something exceptional. Our team works closely with small farms, including our founder's family farm in Concordia, Antioquia, ensuring that every step from plant to cup is done with care.
Our Gesha is a washed-process coffee, meaning the fruit is carefully removed from the bean before drying. This method is known for producing clean, crisp cups that allow the bean’s natural qualities to shine. We roast it lightly to preserve the delicate floral notes and vibrant acidity that make Gesha unique.
Tasting Notes
When you brew a cup of Summit Grounds’ Gesha, expect an aromatic burst of floral notes, often compared to jasmine or delicate wildflowers. The flavor is layered and exciting — bright citrus and sweet stone fruits like peach and apricot are common, along with a silky texture that feels more like tea than a typical coffee. As the cup cools, you may notice even more complexity, making each sip a little different than the last.
Brewing Tips for Gesha Lovers

Because Gesha is such a delicate and complex coffee, brewing it with intention brings out its best qualities. Here are a few simple tips to get the most out of your Summit Grounds Gesha:
Go for Pour-Over – The V60, Chemex, or Kalita Wave are great choices. These methods allow you to highlight the clean and floral notes Gesha is known for.
Use Fresh, Medium-Fine Grind – Grinding right before brewing ensures freshness. A medium-fine grind is ideal for balancing extraction without overwhelming the delicate notes.
Water Temperature – Aim for water between 198°F and 205°F. Too hot, and you risk muting the subtle flavors; too cold, and you may under-extract.
Brew Ratio – A 1:15 to 1:16 coffee-to-water ratio works beautifully. For example, 20 grams of coffee to about 300ml of water.
Take Your Time – Bloom your coffee first by wetting the grounds and letting them rest for 30–45 seconds, then pour slowly and evenly to bring out a smooth, balanced cup.
Remember, with Gesha, less is more — it’s about letting the natural character of the bean shine.
Why Gesha is Worth It
You might be wondering if Gesha is really that different. The answer is: absolutely. Compared to everyday specialty coffees, Gesha brings a stunning aromatic intensity and flavor complexity that’s rare to find. It's not just coffee — it's an experience. The combination of floral notes, lively acidity, and fruity sweetness make every sip feel like a special moment.
While it’s often considered a splurge, Gesha is perfect for slow mornings, special occasions, or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary. Plus, knowing that it comes directly from farms cared for by families like those behind Summit Grounds adds meaning to every cup.
Try Summit Grounds’ Gesha Coffee Today

If you’ve never tried Gesha, now is your chance. Our limited release of Summit Grounds’ Gesha coffee is freshly roasted and ready to ship. Whether you’re an everyday coffee drinker or a coffee enthusiast, this is a cup you won’t forget. Explore the delicate, floral, and fruity journey of one of the world’s most iconic coffees.
Grab a bag while supplies last and experience coffee on a whole new level.
References & Inspiration
General knowledge from the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA.coffee)
Historical insights from coffee industry reports and competitions
Brewing advice based on standard specialty coffee practices
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