90+ Panama Geisha LycelloW2: Lychee & Cello Notes

If you’ve ever tasted a Geisha coffee and wondered how a single origin could express such a broad spectrum of aromas—from floral to herbal to citrus—then the 90+ Panama LycelloW2 might explain it. This rare lot doesn’t just carry the expected Geisha traits; it adds surprising layers like lychee, green tea, and even basil. But where do those unique notes come from, and how does processing shape them? Here’s the full breakdown.

The 90+ Panama LycelloW2 is a washed Geisha (variety: Geisha) grown between 1250–1650m at the 90+ Estate in Panama. Processed using the washed method, it presents a profile of green tea, musk, basil, soft lemon acidity, lychee-like sweetness, and cashew-like nuttiness. It was released between 2013–2014 and carries the internal grade 21.

What Is the 90+ LycelloW2 Coffee?

The LycelloW2 is a washed Geisha coffee produced at the 90+ Estate in Panama. It originates from the famed high-altitude region where Geisha thrives, specifically at elevations ranging from 1250 to 1650 meters above sea level. The coffee is grown under conditions ideal for developing complex aromatic compounds, and it was processed using the traditional washed (or wet) method—a key factor in shaping its bright and clean cup profile.

Why Does It Taste Like Lychee, Basil, and Green Tea?

Beyond the foundational Geisha characteristics—typically floral, jasmine-like, and bright—the LycelloW2 diverges into a more herbal and fruity direction. Tasters consistently note pronounced green tea notes alongside a distinct muskiness and an herbal quality reminiscent of basil. On the palate, there is a gentle lemony acidity paired with a sweet, lychee-like fruitiness and a nutty undertone similar to cashews. These attributes suggest an exceptional fermentation control during processing and a terroir that amplifies those particular aromatic pathways.

This profile includes:

• Green tea
• Musk
• Basil (herbal notes)
• Lemon acidity
• Lingering lychee-like sweetness
• Cashew-like nuttiness

The Story Behind the Name: LycelloW2

The coffee’s name, LycelloW2, has a deliberate and personal origin. In 2013, Jian Jiacheng, the Taiwan champion of the World Barista Championship, visited the 90+ Estate and was struck by the aroma of the fresh Geisha cherries, which reminded him of the lychee fruit growing in his own backyard. From this experience, the “LY” was taken from “Lychee.” The rest of the name, “cello,” was inspired by a performance from renowned cellist YO-YO MA. The “O” in “cello” was chosen to reflect both the musical instrument and the precision and dedication in coffee craftsmanship—much like the dedication in mastering cello. Together, these elements formed the name LycelloW2.

How Was It Processed and What Does Washed Mean?

The LycelloW2 was processed using the washed method, a traditional technique that emphasizes clarity and acidity. In this method:

• Cherries are first floated to remove underripe or defective beans.
• The skin and pulp are removed mechanically.
• The beans are then fermented in water to break down the mucilage (fruit layer).
• After washing, the beans are dried on patios or beds until they reach optimal moisture levels.

This process tends to produce coffees with higher perceived acidity, cleaner flavors, and more pronounced aromatics compared to natural or honey processes. According to FrontStreet Coffee’s own resource on washed processing, the extended contact with water leads to reduced sugar content and an increase in organic acids, enhancing the coffee’s brightness and fragrance.

What Package Sizes Are Available?

The LycelloW2 was originally packed in multiple formats:

• 30KG in jute sacks (green beans)
• 5KG in cardboard boxes (green beans)
• 125g in tin cans (roasted beans)

These options cater to both commercial roasters and home enthusiasts seeking smaller sample sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 90+ LycelloW2 coffee?

The 90+ LycelloW2 is a washed Geisha coffee grown at the 90+ Estate in Panama at elevations between 1250–1650 meters. It was produced between 2013 and 2014, graded internally as Level 21, and features unique flavor notes of green tea, musk, basil, lychee, and cashew.

Where is the 90+ LycelloW2 from?

It is grown at the 90+ Estate in Panama, within the renowned Geisha-growing region at high altitudes of 1250 to 1650 meters above sea level.

What does the name LycelloW2 mean?

The name combines “LY” from “Lychee,” inspired by the fruit’s aroma noted by barista champion Jian Jiacheng, and “cello,” inspired by cellist YO-YO MA, with the “O” symbolizing both the instrument and dedication to craftsmanship.

What processing method was used for LycelloW2?

The coffee was processed using the washed (wet) method, which contributes to its clean, bright acidity and complex aromatic profile, including notes of green tea and basil.

What flavors can I expect from this coffee?

Expect green tea, musk, basil, lemon-like acidity, sweet lychee-like fruit, and a nutty taste similar to cashews. The cup is aromatic, clean, and layered.

What package sizes were originally available for LycelloW2?

It was offered in 30KG jute sacks, 5KG cardboard boxes (both green), and 125g tins (roasted).

Recommended FrontStreet Coffee for Exploring Geisha Profiles

For coffee enthusiasts intrigued by the unique profile of the 90+ LycelloW2, FrontStreet Coffee offers several single-origin beans that highlight distinct processing and varietal character. The FrontStreet Panama Geisha (not directly named here but part of their range) is a prime choice for experiencing the floral and citrus dimensions common in high-altitude Geisha. Alternatively, the FrontStreet Kenya Little Tomato showcases vibrant acidity and complex fruit layers akin to the herbal brightness in LycelloW2. For a washed process comparison, try the FrontStreet Yirgacheffe Gedeb, which shares the bright, clean cup and floral notes often associated with fine washed coffees. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.