Farm info

In the mountains of Matas de Minas, where coffee farming was once an act of faith rather than certainty, Ricardo Hirofumi proudly continues the legacy his family began in 1975. His parents, driven by unwavering vision, chose to cultivate coffee in a region that was not yet recognized as suitable for agriculture. Their perseverance, however, proved otherwise, and over the years, they dedicated themselves to producing high-quality coffee.  

Today, as a second-generation coffee grower, Ricardo carries forward this commitment with the same passion. His focus is not only on maintaining excellence but also on improving his farm through sustainable practices that add value to his coffees. Among the varieties grown on Riacho Das Varas Farm, Yellow Catuai stands out—a variety developed by the Instituto Agronômico (IAC) in São Paulo by crossing Mundo Novo and Caturra, known for its high productivity and adaptability to Brazil’s diverse coffee landscapes.

This particular lot underwent natural processing, a method that begins immediately after harvest. First, the cherries are meticulously sorted to remove any defects before being transferred to the drying area, where they are spread in thin layers and regularly turned for uniform drying. During this stage, fermentation and drying occur simultaneously under careful moisture control. Once milled, the coffee is packed in GrainPro bags, preserving its freshness and ensuring that its rich sensory attributes remain intact. 

Through dedication and innovation, Ricardo continues to build upon his family’s foundation, proving that belief, resilience, and a deep love for coffee can transform challenges into thriving opportunities. 

Region

Matas de Minas

The Matas de Minas coffee region is in the southeastern part of the Minas Gerais state, just over the border from Espirito Santo, with Alto Caparaó as its most recognized of the 63 municipalities that compose the region. With a distinct topography featuring rugged mountain terrains, a mild Brazilian Atlantic Forest climate, and large variations in elevation (between 600 and 1450 meters above sea level), Matas de Minas makes a perfect region for growing specialty coffees.

Because of its specific features, special care is taken in growing all the crops of the region. Coffee is harvested manually to select for only the most mature beans, the trees are planted with wider spacing to receive more sunlight, only treated water is used for washing and pulping the beans, and drying is done meticulously and carefully. The region’s family farms emphasize sustainability and the natural integration between people and land. Together, these factors favor the production of the highest quality coffees, full-bodied and with great nuances in both aroma and flavors.