ORIGIN TRIP UPDATE – BRAZIL JULY 2024
Minas Hill has long been committed to sourcing the finest Brazilian coffee. For us, this commitment goes beyond business; it’s a journey of partnership, innovation, and unwavering dedication to quality. Recently, our CEO & Founder Marcelo embarked on a comprehensive trip to Brazil last month in July, visiting key regions and farms that define our coffee offerings.
One of the first stops on Marcelo’s itinerary was the Labareda and Bom Jesus farms, long-standing partners whose commitment to excellence aligns with our own. These farms, nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Minas Gerais, are at the forefront of coffee innovation.
During the visit, Marcelo explored patches dedicated to cultivating new varieties, such as Catuai 2SL and Catuai 99. These varietals offer unique flavour profiles that could redefine Brazilian coffee on the global stage. The dedication to continuous improvement was palpable, with every detail from the planting to the processing being meticulously managed.
Cupping sessions at these farms were a highlight, revealing the potential of these new microlots. The coffees we tasted were vibrant, with complex flavours that promise to excite both roasters and consumers. These discoveries ensure that our offerings for the next season will include not just reliable blenders but also standout single origins that showcase the best of Brazilian terroir.
The next stop was at Fazenda Santa Monica…
Innovation is at the heart of Fazenda Santa Monica, where Marcelo spent time with Jean Vilhena, the visionary behind the farm’s ground-breaking practices. One of the most striking features of Santa Monica is its state-of-the-art fermentation facility, the largest of its kind in Brazil.
Fermentation is a crucial step in coffee processing that can significantly influence the final cup profile. Santa Monica’s facility is a testament to the farm’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in coffee production. The controlled environments and meticulous processes here are designed to enhance the natural characteristics of the coffee, resulting in flavours that are both unique and refined.
Marcelo had the opportunity to cup several new micro-lots, each one a testament to the possibilities enhanced by advanced fermentation techniques. These coffees not only impressed with their quality but also provided a glimpse into the future of specialty coffee. As we look ahead, these innovations will play a key role in shaping our coffee portfolio, offering our customers new and exciting coffee developments.
As we mark 11 years of partnership with the Mantiqueira region, our visit there was both a celebration and a reaffirmation of our shared values. Mantiqueira is home to some of the most dedicated smallholder producers in Brazil, many of whom are female farmers leading the way in sustainable and ethical coffee production.
The relationships we’ve cultivated in Mantiqueira are more than just business connections; they are partnerships built on trust, respect, and a shared commitment to producing exceptional coffee. During the visit, Marcelo had the chance to connect with these producers, hearing firsthand about the challenges and triumphs of the past year. The image above is Marcelo with one of our beloved producer, Simone from Fazenda Santa Quiteria, Mantiqueira.
This visit also underscored the importance of supporting these communities, not just through purchasing their coffee but by investing in their future. The smallholder farms in Mantiqueira are often family-run with generations working together to produce coffee that reflects the rich heritage and unique microclimates of the region.
The Bright Future of Brazilian Coffee
The innovations in coffee cultivation, processing, and the deepening of our partnerships have reaffirmed our belief in the vibrant future of Brazilian coffee. As we prepare to introduce the new coffees from this trip, we are excited to share these stories and experiences with our customers.
Join Us on a Journey to Origin
We’re thrilled to announce the potential for a trip to Brazil this November, where you’ll have the chance to visit these farms, meet the producers, and experience the heart of coffee production firsthand. Whether you’re a roaster, a coffee enthusiast, or a partner interested in deepening your connection to the source, this trip promises to be an unforgettable experience.
If you’re interested in joining us, please get in touch. Spaces are limited, and this is an opportunity to see the innovations and partnerships that make Minas Hill coffee truly special.