When I started Mantira, I knew the name and logo had to be more than just a label. They had to tell a story—one of heritage, connection, and the mountains that shape our coffee. Mantira isn’t just about great coffee (though it is); it’s about family, culture, and the deep roots of the Mantiqueira Mountains.

 

The Origins of Mantiqueira and the Tupi People

Let’s start with the name. “Mantiqueira” comes from the Tupi word “Amantikir”, which means “where the mountains cry”. It perfectly captures the magic of the Mantiqueira Mountains—misty peaks that rise out of the lush Brazilian landscape, dotted with springs, rivers and waterfalls that bring life to the region..

 

But there’s more to it. The Tupi people, one of Brazil’s largest indigenous tribes, gave the mountains this name. They lived in harmony with the land, seeing the clouds, water, and earth as interconnected and sacred. To them, the Mantiqueira Mountains weren’t just a physical location; they were a lifeline.

 

I wanted to honor that history and their deep connection to this region in every part of Mantira, starting with the name.

 

Why Mantira?

“Mantira” is my way of reinterpreting “Mantiqueira” for the modern world while keeping its roots firmly planted in the past. It’s a nod to the mountains’ beauty, the Tupi heritage, and my family’s connection to this incredible place.

 

In 1988, my father, driven by his love for Brazil (and my mother), purchased Flor da Serra, our coffee farm in the Mantiqueira Mountains. Growing up, I saw firsthand how special this land was—not just for its coffee but for the stories and traditions it held. Naming my brand “Mantira” felt like the perfect way to celebrate all of that.

 

The Logo: A Modern Take on Ancient Patterns

The Mantira logo is where the past meets the present. It’s inspired by the bold, geometric patterns created by the Tupi people. These designs weren’t just art; they were stories. They reflected the balance and rhythm of the natural world—the peaks of the mountains, the flow of rivers, the shapes of the plants they depended on.

 

Our monochrome logo is a tribute to that artistry, reimagined for today. Its clean lines and striking simplicity capture the structured beauty of the Mantiqueira Mountains and the precision and care that go into every cup of Mantira coffee.

 

It’s more than just a logo. It’s a symbol of connection—to the land, the people, and the generations who have shaped this story.

 

Carrying the Story Forward

When you sip Mantira coffee, you’re not just enjoying great coffee (though I promise, it’s really great). You’re stepping into a legacy that started with the Tupi people and their reverence for the Mantiqueira Mountains. You’re sharing in my family’s journey, from my father’s dream of owning a coffee farm to this moment where Mantira becomes part of your day.

 

The name Mantira and our logo are reminders that coffee isn’t just a drink—it’s a story, a connection, and a way to honor the past while building something new.

 

So, here’s to Mantira. To the clouds and waters of the Mantiqueira Mountains. To the artistry of the Tupi people. To my family’s love for Brazil. And to you, for being part of this journey.