Minas Trading Co.
Panoramic view of the mountainous coffee region of Montanhas de Minas.

Montanhas de Minas

Mountain Coffees, Diverse Profiles.

Overview of Montanhas de Minas

Montanhas de Minas, bordering Espírito Santo, is characterized by its rugged, mountainous landscape. This region produces a diverse range of coffee profiles, often influenced by the unique microclimates found in its valleys and slopes. Washed and honey processed coffees are becoming more common here.

The challenging terrain often means manual harvesting, allowing for selective picking of ripe cherries. Producers are increasingly adopting specialty coffee practices to highlight the unique attributes of their coffees.

The proximity to Espírito Santo can sometimes influence processing styles and varietal choices, leading to interesting and distinct cup profiles compared to other Minas Gerais regions.

Rugged Terroir of Montanhas de Minas

Altitude

700 - 1,300 meters above sea level.

Climate

Varied microclimates due to mountainous terrain; generally humid with good rainfall.

Soil

Diverse soil types, often fertile due to the mountainous environment.

Key Varietals

Catuaí (Red & Yellow), Mundo Novo, Bourbon, Arara

Diverse and Often Bright Flavors

Common Notes: Stone Fruits, Berries, Chocolate, Caramel, Bright Acidity, Spicy or Herbal hints.

Characteristics: Medium body, often bright and lively acidity, good sweetness. Profiles can vary significantly based on microclimate and processing.

Varied Processing Approaches

Methods: Natural (Dry), Pulped Natural, Washed (increasingly), Honey (increasingly).

Common Practice: While natural and pulped natural are traditional, there's a growing adoption of washed and honey processing to achieve cleaner, brighter, and more complex cups.

Why Source from Montanhas de Minas?

Opportunity to find unique and diverse coffee profiles.

Increasing focus on specialty coffee production and quality.

Coffees often benefit from manual, selective harvesting.

Potential for interesting washed and honey processed lots.

Supports producers in a challenging but rewarding coffee-growing environment.

Glimpses of Montanhas de Minas

Manual coffee harvesting in Montanhas de Minas
Washed coffee beans drying in Montanhas de Minas
View of a coffee valley in Montanhas de Minas

Interested in Coffees from Montanhas de Minas?

Our team can help you source exceptional lots tailored to your specific needs from this prime region.