Rio Brilhante

Cerrado Mineiro is a large and predominantly flat region in the state of Minas Gerais in southeastern Brazil. According to The Cerrado Coffee Growers Federation (CCGF), this region accounts for 12.7% of Brazil’s annual production.

This region is also the first in Brazil to receive a protected designation of origin status, meaning coffee labeled "Cerrado" has to actually come from Cerrado. The designation of origin is one of the many steps towards increased traceability in the region. However, the status isn’t just about traceability, it’s also about the quality and diversity of flavors. According to the CCGF, the designation of origin is a demarcated territory that produces a coffee with unique characteristics that cannot be found anywhere else.

This coffee is sourced from Inacio Carlos Urban at his Fazenda Rio Brilhante farm in Pântano, Cerrado Mineiro. Inacio purchased the first plot of land that became the 2,000+ hectare Fazenda Rio Brilhante in 1984. From those first few trees to today, Inacio has kept innovation and stewardship at the heart of the farm. He and his sons use a combination of modern technology and age-old agrarian wisdom to manage their farm. Soil content and tree health is tested every quarter and the results inform the application of fertilizers and other inputs. Pruning is conducted approximately every 2 years by trained professionals.

The resulting cup reminds us of grilled almond and dark chocolate.

Country

Brazil

Region

Cerrado Mineiro

Variety

bourbon, catuai, catucai, topázio

Altitude

1150 m

Farm

Fazenda Rio Brilhante

Producer

Inacio Carlos Urban