Fazenda Rio Brilhante (Brazil)

Inacio Carlos Urban arrived in Minas Gerais in 1976 with the dream of producing great coffee using sustainable and innovative practices. Inacio purchased his own farm in 1984 named Rio Brilhante, translating to Bright River, giving recognition to the clear waters of the beautiful river which provides life to his farm. Rio Brilhante has gone on to become one of the best regarded farms in the region, spanning over 2000 hectares. Since planting the first coffee trees 30 years ago, Inacio still strives for quality and excellence which is largely achieved through hard work, dedication and rigorous quality control methods.

We first visited Rio Brilhante in 2019 and were amazed by the quality and consistency of the coffee produced. We now purchase from Rio Brilhante annually through a direct relationship model.

This lot is a Mundo Novo variety, cultivated at Rio Brilhante Farm, and represents a balance between tradition and innovation. Originating from a natural cross between Bourbon and Typica, it is widely recognised for its adaptability and its potential to produce coffees with a rich and consistent sensory profile.

The focus of this lot is to fully highlight the expression of the terroir combined with a carefully conducted natural fermented process. After selective harvesting of cherries at their optimal ripeness, the coffee undergoes a 48-hour aerobic fermentation, carried out under controlled conditions. This process promotes the development of more complex aromatic compounds, enhancing the intensity and overall quality of the cup. The slow drying on concrete patios is managed with great care, ensuring uniform moisture reduction and preserving the integrity of the beans. This gradual drying process directly contributes to sensory clarity and to building a more complex profile.