Matas de Minas (Zona da Mata)
Artisanal Coffees from Mountainous Terrains.
Overview of Matas de Minas (Zona da Mata)
Matas de Minas, often encompassing areas referred to as Zona da Mata, is characterized by its mountainous terrain and a strong tradition of family farming. This region is increasingly recognized for producing high-quality specialty coffees, often with unique and complex flavor profiles due to manual harvesting and careful processing.
The region's topography, with steep slopes and smaller farm sizes, often necessitates manual labor for harvesting and processing, leading to a focus on quality over quantity. Many producers are embracing specialty coffee practices and experimenting with different processing methods.
Matas de Minas coffees are gaining prominence in competitions, showcasing the region's potential for exceptional cup quality, often marked by bright acidity and fruity notes.
Mountainous Terroir of Matas de Minas
Altitude
600 - 1,200 meters above sea level (some higher).
Climate
Humid subtropical climate with abundant rainfall and mild temperatures.
Soil
Primarily clay soils, often rich in organic matter.
Key Varietals
Catuaí (Red & Yellow), Mundo Novo, Bourbon Amarelo, Pacamara (less common)
Common Notes: Dark Chocolate, Caramel, Red Fruits (Cherry, Plum), Citrus Acidity, Floral hints.
Characteristics: Full body, often bright and complex acidity, good sweetness, and a lingering finish. Can be very diverse.
Methods: Pulped Natural, Natural (Dry), Washed (increasingly), Fermented (experimental).
Common Practice: Pulped natural is very common, highlighting the coffee's intrinsic qualities. Natural processing is also traditional. There's a growing trend towards washed and experimental fermentation methods to achieve unique profiles.
Why Source from Matas de Minas?
Access to unique, complex, and often award-winning micro-lots.
Strong emphasis on quality due to manual harvesting and processing.
Growing number of producers focused on specialty coffee standards.
Potential for discovering distinct and surprising flavor profiles.
Supports family farming and traditional coffee cultivation.
Glimpses of Matas de Minas (Zona da Mata)
Interested in Coffees from Matas de Minas (Zona da Mata)?
Our team can help you source exceptional lots tailored to your specific needs from this prime region.