Rare

Super rare coffees are defined by their remarkable uniqueness and scarcity, making them a true find for coffee enthusiasts. These coffees might come from places where production is limited or sourcing is particularly challenging. Regions like Malawi or Panama, especially the renowned Hacienda La Esmeralda, are prime examples. Their small-scale production paired with immense global demand makes them highly coveted.

Sometimes, rarity is about recognition. Coffees that score over 90 points in professional tastings or win prestigious competitions earn their place among the elite. Other coffees are rare simply because they come from less common species. While Arabica dominates the market, species like Racemosa, Liberica, and speciality Robusta offer distinct flavours and are far less widespread.

Processing methods also add to a coffee’s rarity. Techniques like co-fermentation or other experimental approaches yield one-of-a-kind flavour profiles that are hard to replicate. Then there are rare varietals such as Geisha, Pink Bourbon, or Wush Wush, which stand out for their exceptional characteristics and limited availability.

The title of the world’s rarest coffee sparks much debate, but a few extraordinary candidates consistently rise to the top. Racemosa is often considered one of the rarest. This coffee species, native to the coastal sand forests of Mozambique and South Africa, thrives in a unique environment. Its beans are naturally tiny—about the size of lentils—and each plant produces only a small amount of green coffee. The flavour profile of Racemosa is unlike any other, offering a sensory experience that redefines coffee. Its scarcity and distinctiveness make it a true gem.

Another contender is Panama Geisha, which first made waves at Hacienda La Esmeralda. The discovery of this varietal, grown at high altitudes in Panama, set the coffee world alight. Known for its vibrant, floral flavours, Panama Geisha quickly gained a reputation as a luxury coffee. After winning the Best of Panama competition in 2004, it began fetching record-breaking prices, cementing its status as one of the rarest coffees.

Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee also deserves a mention. Grown in the rugged Blue Mountains of Jamaica, this coffee is difficult to produce due to the challenging terrain. Limited growing conditions, paired with rigorous certification processes and hand-sorting, make it exceptionally rare. Its balanced flavour profile, with notes of sugar, cocoa, and citrus, has captivated coffee lovers worldwide.