Meet José Maria and Discover the Heart of Brazil in our new Rhapsody
Meet José Maria de Oliveira
The story of Rhapsody begins with José Maria de Oliveira, a seasoned coffee grower whose life is deeply rooted in the hills of Cerrado Mineiro. From an early age, José Maria dedicated himself to coffee cultivation, working alongside his wife, Lourdes. Together, they have transformed their farm, Toca da Raposa (or “Fox Hole”), into a recognized name in Brazilian coffee, achieving a first-place award for Minas Gerais’ best specialty coffee in the induced fermentation category.
For José Maria, coffee farming is not just a job; it’s a way of life passed down to his family. His grandson, Deyvid Leandro, joined him on the farm from a young age, and it was Deyvid who encouraged José Maria to focus on specialty coffee. After years of hard work and innovation, José Maria’s coffees gained attention for their rich, complex flavors and commitment to sustainability.
What Makes Cerrado Mineiro Special
The Cerrado Mineiro region has quickly gained recognition as one of Brazil’s premier coffee-growing areas. This high-altitude region, set at 1,200 meters, enjoys a unique tropical savanna climate that brings out balanced acidity and sweetness in its coffee beans. Cerrado Mineiro’s well-defined wet and dry seasons create ideal growing conditions, allowing coffee beans to mature slowly and develop rich flavors and smooth textures.
A lesser-known fact about Cerrado Mineiro is its commitment to sustainable practices. José Maria is part of this movement, embracing nearly organic methods on his farm. By avoiding synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, he nurtures the land with natural alternatives that protect the local ecosystem and promote biodiversity. This attention to sustainability and quality shines through in every cup of Rhapsody.
Tasting Notes: The Essence of Brazil
What can you expect when you brew a cup of Rhapsody? This coffee brings forward classic Brazilian notes of chocolate and molasses, balanced by a touch of honey and a hint of floral. The creamy body of Rhapsody gives it a satisfying mouthfeel, making it a versatile choice for both pour-over and espresso.
Rhapsody is more than just a coffee; it’s a tribute to the artistry of Brazilian coffee-growing, José Maria’s commitment to sustainable practices, and the rich heritage of Cerrado Mineiro. When you sip Rhapsody, you’re tasting not only the dedication of a farmer but also the vibrant flavors of Brazil itself.
Try Rhapsody today and experience the journey of Brazilian coffee, one cup at a time.