The Lamastus Family Reigns Supreme at the Best of Panama 2024 and Global Auctions
The Lamastus family, a powerhouse in the specialty coffee industry, has once again proven their unmatched excellence, setting new records in 2024 and winning the highly coveted Best of Panama (BoP) title in the Geisha Natural category. Their long-standing legacy of producing some of the world’s most sought-after coffees continues to flourish as they break auction records and solidify their place as leaders in the coffee world.
A Legacy of Success and Excellence
The Lamastus family’s deep roots in coffee date back to the early 1900s when the family’s patriarch, Robert Lamastus, planted coffee in Panama’s Boquete region. Over the decades, the family has become synonymous with quality coffee production, particularly excelling with the Geisha variety—a coffee known for its complex and refined flavors.
With their win in 2024, the Lamastus family has secured their seventh Best of Panama title, the second-highest number of wins in the competition’s history. This latest victory comes in the Geisha Natural category, reaffirming their expertise in producing exceptional Geisha coffee. Their success doesn’t stop there; they have also won the prestigious Panama Cup, awarded to the overall best coffee producer, four times—the most any producer has achieved.
Record-Breaking Auction Achievements
In addition to their competition victories, the Lamastus family shattered two major auction records in 2024. They set a new Best of Panama auction record with a staggering $10,013 per kilogram paid for their coffee lot, demonstrating the growing demand and appreciation for their exceptional beans. But that wasn’t all—this same lot also broke the world record for the most paid for a single lot of coffee in the family’s own private auction.
The Lamastus Family Estates Private Auction, now in its fourth edition, has become a highly anticipated event in the specialty coffee world. Buyers from across the globe compete for the chance to acquire some of the rarest and finest coffees produced on their estates. Their innovative approach to direct auctions has helped establish new benchmarks for coffee pricing and brought global attention to Panama’s specialty coffee scene.
This year’s auction will feature another exclusive lot from their famous Elida Geisha Aguacatillo Honey, grown in the Aguacatillo area of Elida Estate, which sits at over 2,000 meters above sea level. This particular lot, processed using the honey method, offers a unique and complex flavor profile that reflects the terroir of the high-altitude region. In 2022, the same lot set the highest price ever paid for coffee, fetching an astonishing $13,286 per kilogram ($6,034 per pound).
Coffee Pioneers in Panama’s High-Altitude Farms
The Lamastus Family Estates consists of three highly regarded coffee farms in Boquete, Panama: El Burro Estate, Luito Geisha Estates, and Elida Estate. These farms, nestled on the slopes of Volcan Baru, one of Central America’s highest volcanoes, benefit from a unique microclimate, volcanic soil, and high elevations, which all contribute to the distinctive qualities of their coffees.
The family’s farms are located at altitudes ranging from 1,700 to 2,000 meters above sea level, making them some of the highest coffee farms in Panama. This altitude allows for slow coffee cherry maturation, which produces beans with intense and complex flavors. The Geisha variety, in particular, thrives in these conditions, producing floral and fruity notes that are revered by coffee aficionados around the world.
Innovation and Global Recognition
Beyond their mastery of coffee cultivation, the Lamastus family has embraced innovative approaches to coffee processing and marketing. Their private auctions, which allow buyers to bid directly on exclusive lots, have transformed the way high-end coffee is sold, setting new standards for transparency and premium pricing. Their influence extends beyond Panama, with their coffees being sought after by top roasters, baristas, and specialty coffee shops across the U.S., Europe, Asia, and beyond.
The Lamastus family’s dedication to sustainability also plays a key role in their success. They practice environmentally friendly farming methods, including organic farming, water conservation, and reforestation efforts, ensuring that their coffee production remains both sustainable and socially responsible. They are committed to the well-being of their workers and local communities, supporting education, healthcare, and fair wages for farmworkers.
Looking Forward to 2024’s Auction
As the 2024 Lamastus Family Estates Private Auction approaches, anticipation is high for the results. With their record-breaking prices and global recognition, the family is expected to achieve even greater heights this year.
Reflecting on their recent success, the family shared, “It has been a great few years for us, achieving the highest price ever paid for coffee and recently setting the BoP record price. We are eager and excited for the results of the 2024 Lamastus Family Estates Auction.”
The Lamastus family’s achievements are a testament to their enduring passion, commitment to excellence, and innovative spirit. As they continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the coffee industry, they inspire coffee producers and enthusiasts worldwide. Their story is not just about winning awards or setting records, but about a deep love for coffee and a desire to share its finest expressions with the world.
The Future of Lamastus Family Estates
As leaders in the specialty coffee industry, the Lamastus family’s influence will undoubtedly continue to grow. With each new generation, they bring fresh ideas, greater innovation, and a deeper understanding of the land they cultivate. Their success in 2024 is a clear indicator that the Lamastus Family Estates will remain at the forefront of the global coffee scene for years to come.
From their record-breaking auction prices to their unmatched quality in Geisha coffee, the Lamastus family has set the standard for excellence. As they look ahead to the results of this year’s private auction, one thing is certain: the world will be watching.
