Last week, we set off on another journey to reach the breathtaking landscapes of Minas Gerais—Brazil’s most iconic coffee-growing region.

Our coffee origin adventure took us across few unique farms, ranging from large-scale estates to small family-run plots. Each location offered something distinct and memorable, yet all shared the same peaceful beauty and commitment to quality.

Throughout the trip, we had the opportunity to meet passionate coffee growers, forge valuable connections with cooperatives, traders, and exporters, and engage in meaningful exchanges with fellow professionals from around the globe. Of course, we also enjoyed our fair share of pão de queijo, broa, cachaça, and cupped more coffee than we could count.

Keep reading to discover the people, stories, and passion behind some of Brazil’s most beloved coffees.

Our journey began in the highlands of South Minas, at Mariana’s farm.
This farm made history in 2014 by winning Brazil’s Cup of Excellence with the highest-ever score in the competition’s history it was when we started to work together with this farm and amazing family. We have presented their coffee at the 2014 London Coffee Festival.

The farm’s exceptional coffee is a product of its unique microclimate in the Mantiqueira mountains. Sitting at over 1,300 meters above sea level, the terrain offers natural protection from strong winds and harsh weather—ideal for growing high-quality coffee.

Mariana’s farm, just outside the rural town of Carmo de Minas. This region is famed for its award-winning lots—earning a place among the finalists in the Cup of Excellence five times since 2002.

The land has been in the same family since 1954, when it was passed down to Mariana.

Beyond coffee, the farm is also investing in sustainability and land diversification. During our visit, we even sampled some of their delicious olive oil—one of the newer crops they’ve introduced alongside native vegetation.