Eugene Altieri

Eugene Altieri, an Italian-American entrepreneur who moved to Panama in 1973, founded Altieri Specialty Coffee in 2005. Despite having no prior experience in the coffee industry, Altieri acquired two farms in the Boquete region—Mima and Pipim—which he later discovered were situated in one of the world’s most ideal microclimates for specialty coffee cultivation. The farms are located on the slopes of the Volcán Barú, benefiting from fertile volcanic soil and high elevations ranging from 1,700 to 2,200 meters above sea level.

Since its inception, the Altieri family has transformed these properties into a highly respected operation. While Eugene initially managed the farms, he entered a semi-retirement phase approximately seven years ago. Today, the business is operated by his children, including Anna Lynn and Francisco, alongside farm manager Roger Pitti. The family’s commitment extends beyond production, as they are noted for their focus on community development and the welfare of their workers and their families.

The Altieri farms cultivate a variety of coffee cultivars, including Caturra, Catuai, Typica, and the highly sought-after Geisha. The family’s Geisha lineage is particularly notable, as Eugene sourced seeds from the Peterson family of Hacienda La Esmeralda, who are credited with reintroducing the Geisha variety to the global specialty market following their success in the 2004 Best of Panama competition.

Processing techniques at Altieri Specialty Coffee have evolved significantly under the second generation of family leadership. The team employs precise and creative methods, such as the 'River Flow' fermentation process, to enhance the flavor profiles of their harvests. These efforts have resulted in consistent recognition on the international stage, with the farm securing top-three placements in the prestigious Best of Panama competition in years including 2017 and 2024.

For roasters and consumers, the Altieri tag represents a commitment to traceability and high-quality standards. Their coffees are frequently cited for complex tasting notes, ranging from floral and citrus characteristics in their Geisha lots to the smooth, chocolatey, and fruit-forward profiles found in their traditional Caturra and Catuai offerings. The family’s ability to maintain consistent quality while scaling their brand has made them a staple for specialty roasters seeking premium Panamanian coffee.

Today, the Altieri legacy is a multi-generational effort involving Eugene’s wife, Lelia, and their eleven grandchildren. By balancing traditional agricultural practices with modern processing innovation, the family has solidified their position as one of Boquete’s most respected producers. Their story serves as a case study in how business acumen, combined with a dedication to terroir and community, can elevate a farm to the top tier of the global specialty coffee market.