Specialty coffee competitions have seen a return to Gesha dominance after a period of experimentation with lesser-known varieties. Producers and roasters are now blending it with overlooked species like Liberica amid price volatility and climate pressures. This shift highlights renewed focus on resilience and commercial viability.
Recent World Barista and Brewers Cup events show Gesha reclaiming its position. Almost every finalist at the 2025 World Barista Championship used the variety, while all but one of the 2026 World Brewers Cup finalists followed suit.
Competitors are increasingly pairing Gesha with Liberica rather than relying on exclusive new types. Malaysia’s Jason Loo placed fourth at the 2025 event with a blend of Malaysian Liberica and Panama Gesha. Jill Hoff, the 2026 Canadian Barista Champion, used Indonesian Liberica mixed with Chakira in her winning routine.
Industry voices point to economic and environmental factors driving the change. Michael Harris Conlin, a three-time Philippine Barista Champion, noted that producers now ask whether varieties are productive, resilient, and scalable. Olin Patterson of Excelsa Coffee Company said drought-prone climates are boosting interest in Excelsa for its tolerance and shade benefits.
The trend reflects a broader move toward coffees that balance novelty with practicality. As Michael concluded, future quality gains will likely come from combining genetics, processing, and terroir rather than rare varieties alone.
