Costa Rican specialty coffee has once again solidified its position at the absolute pinnacle of the global coffee market. The international electronic auction of the 19th edition of the Cup of Excellence 2026 concluded with historic results, generating a staggering total value of $797,967.63 and reaffirming the world’s obsession with Costa Rica’s high-altitude micro-lots.
The prestigious competition, which connects hard-working local producers directly with elite international roasters, saw fierce bidding wars from specialized buyers across Asia, Europe, and North America.
Los Santos Region Dominates the Podium
This year’s edition was an absolute triumph for the renowned Los Santos coffee region, which swept the top spots across all three competition categories. These winning lots truly represent the cutting edge of agricultural innovation and meticulous processing:
Washed Category (Overall Top Scorer): A stunning Java variety from the RÃo Blanco farm, produced by Alejandra Cordero Solano, which led the entire competition with an exceptional score of 91.36 points.
Honey & Natural Category: A flawless Geisha from the Las Nubes farm, meticulously crafted by Alex Ureña MarÃn (scoring 91.06 points).
Experimental Fermentations Category: An exquisite and complex Geisha from the Las Margaritas Veintiséis farm, processed by Emmanuel SolÃs Porras (scoring 91.06 points).
Why This Record Matters
The grand total of nearly $800,000 injected into the local coffee sector is more than just a financial milestone. It reflects the immense value that the global specialty market—particularly Asian boutique roasters—places on traceability, experimental processing, and strict quality control.
For Costa Rican coffee growers, these record-breaking per-pound prices serve as a direct reward for their year-round dedication, family heritage, and resilience in the face of changing climate conditions. Once again, Costa Rica proves that when it comes to coffee, quality always triumphs over quantity.
