History
Founded in 1996 by David and Lia Pech, Damarli Estate began as a family-driven agricultural project with a vision to produce exceptional coffee in Panama’s highlands. Through Lia’s family—the Ruiz family, long established in coffee production in the region—the estate is rooted in a multi-generational farming legacy. While Damarli itself is a relatively modern project, David and Lia’s sons – Keith and Seth Pech – represent the fifth generation of coffee producers, carrying forward this heritage while shaping the estate’s future. Today, the entire family is actively involved in the business, contributing to its growth through expanded market relationships, brand development, and continued innovation in coffee production. The estate integrates coffee production, agritourism, and direct trade relationships, allowing for greater transparency and closer collaboration with international partners.
Location
Damarli Estate is located in the Volcanctio, Boquete region of Chiriquí, Panama, on the slopes of Volcán Barú at elevations ranging from approximately 1,450 to 1,500 meters above sea level. The farm benefits from rich volcanic soils and a distinct microclimate that is notably drier than other areas of Boquete. This unique combination allows for controlled drying conditions, which are especially advantageous for natural processes. The interplay of warm daytime temperatures and cooler mountain air contributes to slow cherry maturation, resulting in greater complexity and balance in the cup.
Varietals
The estate cultivates a diverse portfolio of high-quality Arabica varietals, including Panama Geisha, Red Bourbon, Caturra, Catuai, Pacamara, Typica, and Marsellesa. This range allows Damarli to produce a wide spectrum of flavor profiles, from delicate and floral to rich and fruit-forward. The focus on varietal selection and separation enables the creation of distinct microlots tailored to the evolving demands of the specialty coffee market.
Processing
Damarli Estate emphasizes precision and care at every stage of production, beginning with selective hand-harvesting of fully ripe cherries. Processing methods include natural, anaerobic, washed, and honey processes, with a strong emphasis on natural and experimental techniques in recent years. The estate’s dry conditions enable extended and controlled drying periods, enhancing clarity, sweetness, and complexity. Each lot is carefully monitored and separated to maintain traceability and consistency. The estate has its own dry mill, allowing more precision and consistency.
Achievements
Damarli Estate has received international recognition for its quality and innovation, including top placements at the Best of Panama competition, notably achieving 1st place with its Pacamara in 2019 and in 2025 an auction finish for its Panama Geisha Plot 11. The estate continues to build its reputation among specialty buyers for producing expressive, high-scoring coffees, while maintaining a commitment to sustainability, craftsmanship, and continuous improvement.
Website:
Contact:
David Pech: david@damarliestate.com
Keith Pech: keith@damarliestate.com
