Coffee origin
Brazilian coffee: nutty, chocolatey and the classic espresso base
Brazil has been the world's largest coffee producer since the 1840s. Its typical cup is nutty, buttery and chocolatey with a heavy body.
- Usual processing
- natural (dried in the fruit), pulped natural
- Species
- arabica, robusta
- Typical notes
- nuts, chocolate, caramel, low acidity
Profiles are typical descriptions from the sources on each page. Every farm, harvest and roast is different, so read the roaster's own tasting notes too.
How it tastes
Barista Hustle explains that Brazilian coffee is the base of most espresso blends: low acidity, sweetness, nutty or chocolatey notes and a rich body suit espresso, and the lower price keeps blends affordable. Some higher-grown Brazilian coffees are now brighter and fruitier, according to Perfect Daily Grind.
Where it comes from
Nearly all Brazilian coffee is dry processed: whole cherries dry in the sun for about 8 to 10 days before the fruit is hulled off. Espresso-style lots are usually natural or pulped natural. Most farms harvest once a year, from June to September.
Arabica makes up about 70% of production, mostly in Minas Gerais, which grows about half of the national crop. Robusta, about 30%, is concentrated in Espírito Santo and Rondônia. Specialty lots are now often named after their farm or region instead of the old generic name "Santos".
How to enjoy it
The best origin for lattes and cappuccinos: the chocolate and nut flavours stay strong in milk. It also makes a smooth, forgiving espresso, which helps when you are learning, see espresso machines for beginners.
Shop Brazil coffee
Search Brazil beans on AmazonBefore you add to cart: look for a roast date, the words 100% and whole bean. Our buying tips explain why.
Shop buttons open a search in your local Amazon store. We don't check stock or prices, and as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Sources
- Wikipedia: Coffee production in Brazil
- Barista Hustle: The coffee buyer's guide to Brazil
- Perfect Daily Grind: What do coffees from around the world taste like, and why?
We checked these sources on the date above. Spotted a mistake? Please tell us through the contact page.