Sitio Esperança, Brazil
With its rich soil and ideal climate the state of Minas Gerais the largest coffee producing region in Brazil, accounting for around 50% of all Brazil’s production. It’s also well known as a quality leader, producing some of the worlds best natural processed coffee.
Alessandro Hervaz is producer of our Sitio Espreança coffee. He is one of those farmers producing award-winning, pulped-natural coffee, and continues to nurture his family’s business that’s been growing specialty coffee since 1993. He recently placed 7th for naturals in Brazil Cup of Excellence.
You’ll notice the varietal is Yellow Catuai – yes – the cherries are yellow not red when ripe. This varietal is a hybrid of Mundo Novo and Caturra, which was crossbred in Brazil in 1949. It is highly resistant, making it suitable for growing in relatively high altitudes and windy areas. Both red and yellow Catuai hybrids are known to have a very refined and clean acidity – and this really comes through in our recommended filter roasts.
Once harvested the coffee beans are carefully monitored. Unlike the washed process, naturally processed coffees leave the cherry fruit intact and on the seeds while it is dried. The extra sugars from the processing help to create more fruity and sweet flavours, which can be enhanced through the roast. Read more about processing here.
Try our recommended espresso roast recipe for a silky full bodied, sweet classic espresso with notes of cinnamon, candied orange peel, and honey, or try it as a filter to accentuate the milk chocolate, almond, and toffee notes while maintaining an exceptional acidity and lingering flavour.
