Region: Cristina, Minas Gerais
Elevation: 1100 masl
About: Nestled in the picturesque Mantiqueira de Minas region, Sítio Santa Luzia is a coffee haven. Situated at an elevation of 1,100 to 1,180 metres, the farm, acquired in 2007 by this first-generation family, is a testament to Ronaldo's commitment to quality coffee. With 7.5 hectares dedicated to the Catucaí variety, Ronaldo ensures excellence with guidance from Cocarive agronomists.
Fuelled by a familial agricultural system, Ronaldo and his wife, Luziane, along with their children, Renan and Aline, actively participate in every stage of coffee production. Sustainability is paramount, with a focus on preserving the springs and native forests on the farm.
Handpicking occurs only when beans are perfectly ripe, and cloths are laid under the trees to ensure the cherries never touch the ground. The processing involves washing, drying on the patio with meticulous raking, and leaving the coffee to rest in granaries.
This is the second consecutive year that we’ve purchased Ronaldo’s coffee in the Cup of Excellence (COE) auction. In 2023, he took home third place, whereas this year, he claimed the top spot in the Natural category. Only 180 kg of this exceptional coffee was produced, and it was our standout favourite from the 2024 Brazil COE.