Coffee isn’t just a drink—it’s a ritual, a memory, a connection. For me, it’s all of that and more. It’s the smell of my vovó roasting coffee beans in the backyard, the crackle of the fire mingling with the earthy, nutty aroma of freshly roasted coffee. It’s the warmth of her presence and the stories she’d share as we sat together, sipping her perfectly brewed cafezinho.

But to really understand why Minas Gerais is so special for coffee—and why Mantira was born—you need to know the story of how coffee arrived here and why this region became its heart and soul.

 

The Journey of Coffee to Brazil

Believe it or not, coffee didn’t originate in Brazil. It all started in Ethiopia, where legend has it that a curious goat herder noticed his goats dancing around after munching on some mysterious red berries. From there, coffee traveled the world, making its way to Brazil in the early 18th century.

 

And here’s where it gets spicy (literally): coffee plants were smuggled into Brazil. Yes, smuggled. Legend has it a Portuguese officer seduced the wife of a French Guianese governor to “obtain” a few coffee seeds, and the rest is history. By the 19th century, coffee wasn’t just part of Brazil’s economy—it was the economy.

 

Why Minas Gerais?

So, what makes Minas Gerais the crown jewel of Brazilian coffee? It’s a magical combination of altitude, climate, and soil. The rolling hills of Minas Gerais, particularly the Mantiqueira Mountains, provide the perfect conditions for growing coffee: warm days, cool nights, and nutrient-rich soil that gives the beans their unique flavour.

 

But it’s more than science. Coffee farming here is an art passed down through generations. Families, like the ones who work on Flor da Serra (my family’s farm), pour their hearts into every stage—from planting and harvesting to drying the beans under the sun.

 

Coffee and Culture

In Minas Gerais, coffee isn’t just something you drink to wake up; it’s how you connect. It’s a small, strong cafezinho shared with friends, family, or even a stranger who just stopped by (because, let’s be honest, you don’t need an invitation to visit in Minas Gerais). It’s the smell of roasted beans wafting through the air at sunrise, promising a good day ahead.

 

Growing up, I spent a lot of time in Minas Gerais, where coffee was woven into everyday life. My vovó had a small roasting setup in the back of her garden. I can still hear the rhythmic scraping of the wooden spoon as she stirred the beans in a metal pan over the fire, her movements as natural as breathing. The scent of roasting coffee filled the air, rich and slightly smoky, wrapping around us like a warm embrace.

 

Those moments weren’t just about making coffee—they were about creating something with care and intention, something that brought people together. I didn’t know it at the time, but those memories would inspire the heart of Mantira.

 

How Minas Gerais Shaped Mantira

The Mantiqueira Mountains, where our family farm is nestled, are the beating heart of Minas Gerais coffee. This region isn’t just where Mantira comes from; it’s why Mantira exists. The name itself is inspired by the mountains, and every bean we source reflects the land, the people, and the love that go into growing it.

 

For me, Mantira is a way of honouring this incredible place. It’s a celebration of the families who’ve dedicated their lives to coffee farming, the rich history of the region, and the simple joy of a perfect cup of coffee.

 

The Legacy Lives On

When you brew a cup of Mantira coffee, you’re not just drinking coffee—you’re tasting the legacy of Minas Gerais. You’re experiencing the altitude of the mountains, the care of the farmers, and the love of a family (mine!) deeply connected to this land.

 

So, next time you sip your coffee, take a moment to think about its journey—from the misty hills of Minas Gerais to your cup. Because every bean has a story, and at Mantira, we’re proud to share ours with you.