Brazil Minas Gerais Coffee: Origin Guide

Brazil is the largest coffee producing country in the world, and Minas Gerais is one of its most famous coffee-growing regions. Pronounced as "me-nas geh-rais," this region is located in the southeastern part of Brazil. With an altitude ranging from 800 to 1,300 meters above sea level, Minas Gerais is known for producing some of the best specialty coffees in the country. An interesting fact about this region is that it accounts for nearly 50% of Brazil's total coffee production.

History Of The Region

Coffee has a long and rich history in Minas Gerais, dating back to the 18th century. The region's fertile soil, high altitude, and favorable climate made it an ideal location for coffee cultivation. Over the years, coffee production has been a significant contributor to the growth and development of Minas Gerais, transforming it into one of Brazil's wealthiest states. Today, the region is home to a large number of coffee farms and cooperatives, producing some of the finest coffees in the world.

Farming & Processing Methods

In Minas Gerais, coffee farming and processing methods have evolved over the years, incorporating both traditional and modern techniques. Most coffee farms in the region are small to medium-sized, with many farmers relying on manual labor for harvesting and processing. However, some larger farms have adopted mechanized harvesting methods to increase efficiency and reduce labor costs.

The most common processing method used in Minas Gerais is the natural or dry process, where coffee cherries are sun-dried on patios or raised beds until they reach an ideal moisture content. This method helps preserve the fruity and sweet characteristics of the coffee, which are highly sought after by specialty coffee enthusiasts. In addition to the natural process, some farms in the region also utilize the pulped natural and wet processing methods, which involve removing the outer skin and pulp of the coffee cherries before drying.

Tasting Notes

Coffees from Minas Gerais are known for their exceptional quality and distinctive flavor profiles. Due to the region's diverse microclimates and processing methods, the tasting notes can vary greatly from farm to farm. However, some common characteristics of Minas Gerais coffees include a medium to full body, low acidity, and a balanced, smooth flavor.

Typical tasting notes for coffees from this region include chocolate, caramel, nuts, and various fruit flavors such as berries, citrus, and stone fruits. These coffees often have a lingering, sweet finish, making them highly enjoyable and sought after by coffee lovers around the world.

Notable Farms and Farmers

Minas Gerais is home to several well-known farms and farmers who have gained international recognition for their exceptional coffees. Some noteworthy farms in the region include Fazenda Santa Inês, Fazenda Rainha, and Fazenda Sertão. These farms have consistently produced award-winning coffees in prestigious competitions such as the Cup of Excellence and the Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA) events.

As the specialty coffee industry continues to grow and evolve, Minas Gerais remains a key player in the global coffee scene. With its rich history, diverse microclimates, and commitment to quality, the region continues to produce some of the world's most exceptional and unique coffees. For coffee enthusiasts seeking to explore the vast world of specialty coffee, Minas Gerais is undoubtedly an origin worth discovering.