Starbucks introduces Geisha, its most expensive coffee yet

“Black gold” used to refer to oil. Now the term may well be applied to the new Geisha “varietal” being offered by Starbucks for $40 (U.S.) for a half-pound or $7 for a “grande” — a 16-ounce serving.

The new variety, Costa Rica Finca Palmilera, dubbed Geisha by the international coffee chain, is only available so far at 46 locations in the U.S. Northwest region. A company official described Geisha as “rare (and) difficult to grow,” by way of explanation for the premium price. A “tall” cup of 12 ouncesd costs $6.

“We have loyal reserve customers who are interested in any opportunity to try something as rare and exquisite as the Geisha varietal,” Starbucks spokeswoman Lisa Passé said.

No word on if/when it’s coming to Canada. If it does, will you pay $7 for a 16-ounce cup of Geisha? Take our poll.

Starbucks’ head office is located in Seattle, Wash.