Espirito Santo Mountains

Despite being one of the smallest states in Brazil, Espírito Santo has emerged as one of the best coffee-producing region in Brazil, renowned for its unique terroir and exceptional coffee offerings. It boasts a diverse mosaic of terrains, ranging from flat beaches on the Atlantic coast to the towering rocky peaks of its eponymous mountains where on the altitudes above 1100m a.s.l. the coffee is grown.

The majority of coffee-producing properties in Espírito Santo are small, family-run enterprises, typically spanning between 4 and 20 hectares. Labor is often provided by family members, fostering a strong sense of community and tradition within the region. These farms are strategically situated at altitudes ranging from 900 to 1,400 meters above sea level. The high elevations, combined with the region’s proximity to the ocean and the presence of vast forest parks, create an ideal microclimate for coffee cultivation.

With abundant rainfall throughout the year, Espírito Santo experiences multiple flowerings during the coffee crop cycle, culminating in the March flowering. This unique phenomenon results in predominantly selective harvesting practices and the production of pulped and washed coffees. However, such timing of coffee maturation also causes a serious issue: inability to participate in most national quality contests like the Cup of Excellence. The best coffees from this region reach their peak maturity from October onwards, a time when many national competitions are already underway.

This unique timing prevents Espírito Santo producers from participating in traditional competitions, emphasizing the need for alternative avenues to recognize and reward their exceptional coffees. We acknowledge the dedication and resilience of these farmers – by offering a platform that values quality and sustainability. With our Unroasted Regionals series, we aim to uplift Espírito Santo’s coffee community and contribute to its continued growth and success.