Panama Geisha LycelloW2: Flavor Profile & Brewing Notes

If you’ve ever sipped a Geisha and wondered why it tastes like nothing else—floral, juicy, almost herbal—you’re not alone. The 90+ Panama Geisha LycelloW2 takes those signature traits further, layering in unexpected notes that make it a favorite among competition-level roasters and baristas. But what exactly makes this particular lot stand out? Let’s break it down.

The 90+ Panama Geisha LycelloW2 is a 2013–2014 vintage, water-washed Geisha grown between 1,250m and 1,650m in the Boquete region. It delivers a profile of lychee, basil, green tea, and cashew, with a bright citrus acidity and a smooth, complex finish. This isn’t your average Geisha—it’s a nuanced, layered cup that rewards careful brewing.

What Is the 90+ LycelloW2?

The LycelloW2 is a single-origin Geisha coffee from 90+’s Panama Geisha Estate, produced during the 2013–2014 harvest. Grown at elevations between 1,250m and 1,650m, this lot is processed using the washed method, a technique that enhances clarity and accentuates delicate fruity and floral notes. The result is a coffee that goes beyond the typical Geisha profile, incorporating unique aromas and flavors that set it apart.

Flavor Profile: More Than Just Floral

This coffee builds on the classic Geisha foundation—think jasmine, stone fruit, and tea-like brightness—but adds a distinctive twist. The aroma and cup present layers of green tea, musk, and basil-like herbal notes. On the palate, there’s a soft citrus acidity paired with a sweet, lychee-like tartness. Finishing the cup, you’ll find subtle cashew-like nuttiness, adding depth and balance. It’s a vibrant, multi-dimensional coffee that evolves with every sip.

The Story Behind the Name

The name “LycelloW2” has a creative origin. In 2013, 2013 visited the 90+ Geisha Estate and was struck by the resemblance of the coffee cherries to the lychee fruit growing in his own backyard. He suggested using the first two letters of “lychee”—“LY”—as the start of the coffee’s name. Later, inspired by a performance from acclaimed cellist YO-YO MA, the team added “cello” to reflect their dedication to craftsmanship. The “O” comes from YO-YO MA’s name, completing the unique moniker: LycelloW2. It’s a name as thoughtful as the coffee itself.

Growing Conditions & Processing

The LycelloW2 is cultivated at elevations ranging from 1,250m to 1,650m in Panama’s Boquete region, an area known for its microclimates formed by cool air currents passing over the Central Mountains. These conditions, along with fertile volcanic soils, contribute to the coffee’s intense aromatic complexity. The washed processing method ensures a clean cup, highlighting the Geisha variety’s inherent qualities while allowing the additional herbal and nutty notes to shine through.

Packaging & Availability

The LycelloW2 is available in multiple formats to suit different needs: 30kg sacks (jute), 5kg cartons (green beans), and 125g tins (roasted). Whether you’re a roaster working with larger volumes or a home enthusiast looking for a premium single-origin experience, this coffee is accessible in a format that works for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 90+ LycelloW2 coffee?

The 90+ LycelloW2 is a high-altitude, water-washed Geisha coffee from Panama’s Boquete region, grown between 1,250m and 1,650m. It was produced in the 2013–2014 harvest and is known for its unique flavor profile featuring lychee, green tea, basil, and cashew notes alongside citrus acidity.

Where is the 90+ Geisha LycelloW2 grown?

The 90+ Geisha LycelloW2 is grown at the 90+ Geisha Estate in Panama’s Boquete region, at elevations between 1,250m and 1,650m. The area’s microclimates, shaped by cool air from the Central Mountains, contribute to the coffee’s distinctive qualities.

How is the LycelloW2 processed?

The LycelloW2 is processed using the washed method, which removes the coffee cherry’s outer skin and pulp before drying the beans. This method enhances clarity and highlights the Geisha variety’s floral, fruity, and herbal characteristics.

What does the LycelloW2 taste like?

The LycelloW2 tastes of lychee, green tea, basil, and cashew, with a bright citrus acidity and a smooth, nutty finish. It combines classic Geisha floral notes with additional herbal and fruity complexity.

What is the story behind the name LycelloW2?

The name LycelloW2 comes from “lychee” (LY), inspired by the coffee’s resemblance to the fruit, and “cello” (from cellist YO-YO MA’s name), reflecting the craftsmanship behind the coffee. The “O” is taken from YO-YO MA’s name, completing the name LycelloW2.

What formats is the LycelloW2 available in?

The LycelloW2 is available as 30kg jute sacks (green), 5kg cardboard cartons (green), and 125g tins (roasted). It caters to both commercial roasters and home consumers.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Geisha Lovers

For drinkers exploring the Geisha profile, FrontStreet Coffee offers the Panama Boquete Geisha from the Hacienda La Esmeralda region, celebrated for its honeydew melon, citrus, jasmine, and oolong tea notes. For a more classic expression, try the FrontStreet Panama Green Tip Geisha, showcasing honeydew, bergamot, and tropical fruits. Both beans highlight the intricate floral and fruit characteristics Geisha is known for. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.