Our Coffees: Brazil - FAZENDA DA LAGOA

Region Info: Santo Antônio do Amparo, Minas Gerais

For over a century, the nation's true global synonym was coffee. This single commodity shaped Brazil's economy, spurred the development of its southeastern region—now the country's wealthiest—and cemented its status as an agricultural powerhouse. While the rhythm of carnival is infectious, the pulse of Brazil has long been measured in coffee harvests. 

Today, Brazil remains the undisputed giant of coffee production, responsible for about a third of the world's supply. While volume has always been its hallmark, a quiet revolution is underway. A growing segment of growers is pivoting from quantity to exceptional quality, cultivating world-class specialty coffees that are redefining Brazil’s place in the global market.

At it’s heart is Minas Gerais, named for the "General Mines" of its 18th-century gold rush, Minas Gerais is now the crown jewel of Brazilian coffee, producing nearly 50% of the country's total crop. It's a state of diverse micro-regions, each with a unique profile.  

History of coffee in Brazil

Coffee's arrival in Brazil dates back to the late 17th century. Legend has it that a Portuguese-Brazilian military officer named Palheta was sent on a diplomatic mission to French Guiana, a neighbouring colony, to settle a border dispute. The French were fiercely protective of their coffee plants, prohibiting the export of viable seeds. Palheta, aware of the potential for coffee in Brazil, charmed the French governor's wife and as a parting gift, she is said to have presented him with a bouquet containing a strategically placed coffee seedling, which eventually became the foundation for Brazil's thriving coffee industry.

Over A hundred years later, Brazil accounted for 30% of the world’s coffee supply. A hundred years after that, in the 1920’s, Brazil held a virtual monopoly, producing 80% of the world’s coffee. Although Brazil’s market share peaked at 80% in the 1920’s, its continuing status as the world’s largest coffee producer still gives the country considerable influence on the market and coffee prices. It is said that when Brazil sneezes, the coffee world catches cold. In 1975, a “black frost” destroyed over 70 percent of the crop in Brazil and coffee prices doubled world-wide. Brazil was a founding member of the Pan-American Coffee Bureau, which invented the concept of a “coffee break,” during an advertising campaign in the early 1950’s. 

Flavour Profile

"This coffee is so versatile, it evokes sweetness and clarity in the light & medium roasts. But when used in the dark roasts it’s depth and richness come through. You can always rely on consistency with Brazilian coffee and the Fazenda da Lagoa is no exception. It’s very much a staple in the Eco Coffee range!" - Kieran, Head Roaster