Back with the Brazilian samba

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It's been a while since we have roasted a coffee from Brazil. It's probably rather odd as Brazil is the largest coffee producer in the world. It has always been a challenge when sourcing for coffees from this country. While this vast country has surpassed other countries in terms of coffee production, it has always been a challenge to find coffees that ticks the boxes in terms of our cup criteria that we're looking for. Many international buyers/roasters look to Brazils for their espresso blends for its lower acid profile, bigger body with distinct nutty or chocolatey finish. However, as the demand for specialty coffee increases globally, more Brazilian producers are moving towards more quality-driven initiatives that has helped to raise the bar locally, and there are gems to be found when one look hard enough.

A couple of months back, we reached out to our export partners for samples of the fresh harvests. We included a couple of Brazils in our request to broaden our coffee selection. We were looking for a sweet and clean Brazil. Fortunately, we found one which cupped the best amongst those we have tried. This cup is from Fazenda Machado. 

Fazenda Machado is owned by Mr. Agnon Araujo and is situated in Piatã in the Chapada Diamantina region of Bahia. The farm is at 1,240 masl and covers 100 ha, although only 18 ha are used for growing coffee. Mr. Araujo grows a mixture of different varietals, Catuaí, Acauã , Catucaí, Topazio, and Bourbon. Mr. Araujo is from a coffee producing family in this area. He grew up on a farm in Piatã with his parents who managed a small plantation. He initially left for greener pastures to São Paulo for work. After some years in São Paulo he realised that he was missing where he came from, the outdoors and lifestyle of farming and being close to his family. He enjoys working with his hands, planting fruit trees and began to plan to buy a farm. At Fazenda Machado, they strive to produce the best quality and to take advantage of the unique coffee growing region the farm is located in. They process the coffees in all 3 forms - Natural, Pulped Natural and washed. Currently the coffees are dried on a cement patio, and raked regularly.

The coffees from Bahia are particularly distinctive compared to coffees grown in other parts of Brazil, this coffee from Fazenda Machado stands out for its sweetness, balance and subtle fruit tones. As an espresso, the red apple notes come through prominently followed by macadamia nuts in the finish. Its lush mouthfeel reminds one of creamy peanut butter. Yums!

Farm: Machado
Producer: Agnon Araujo
Region: Piatã, Bahia, Brazil
Varietal: Catuai, Acaia, Bourbon
Altitude: 1240m asl
Processing: Pulped natural

Available now in store and on our webshop.