Tasting Notes

Oranges, Jasmine, Stone Fruits & Caramel.

Roast Level

Process

Particulars

Elevation:	1,200 m
Variety:	Yellow Bourbon
Process Type:	Natural
Producer:	Fazenda Um

About this Specialty Coffee

In the heart of Brazil's southern region lies a coffee farm that defies convention. Fazenda UM, owned and operated by Stefano Um, is not just a plantation but a testament to one man's journey from rural Korea to the lush landscapes of South America. This distinctive agroforestry stands on a plot renowned for its unique coffee profiles, particularly its flowery flavor notes—an exclusive characteristic of this land.

Stefano Um's approach to coffee farming is as unique as the plot itself. Preferring to handpick only the ripest cherries, his methods reflect a deep respect for quality and sustainability. Originally started as a modest retirement venture in 2009, Fazenda UM was born from Stefano's longing to return to the countryside after a lifetime away from agriculture. What began as an unpretentious retirement plan soon blossomed into a passion that would define Fazenda UM's mission—producing top-quality coffee with meticulous traceability.

The Um family's journey into specialty coffee took a significant turn in 2014. Sons Boram and Garam joined the venture, each bringing their unique expertise. Boram, a Q-grader, focused on coffee quality and processing innovations, while Garam dedicated himself to education, teaching thousands of baristas and coffee enthusiasts across Brazil. This family collaboration led to the founding of Um Coffee Co., a coffee shop, roastery, and school in São Paulo that quickly became a reference point for specialty coffee culture in Brazil.

Expanding their vision, the Um family acquired a secondary property in 2015. Fazenda Um Espírito Santo, a 28-hectare estate, is located in a region reminiscent of Central America's high mountains. This unique terroir produces coffee lots with distinctive flavors, including soft umami notes and high sweetness impact reminiscent of sugarcane. The complexity of this microclimate has inspired the Um family to develop new processing techniques, aiming to unlock the region's full potential.

Visitors to Fazenda UM often find themselves captivated by rare coffee varieties. The Pink Bourbon and SL28 stand out with their distinctive characters, while the Wush Wush variety, exclusive to Fazenda UM in Brazil, showcases Stefano's pioneering spirit. These unique offerings are a testament to the farm's commitment to innovation and quality in the world of specialty coffee.

As Stefano Um focuses his later years on making Fazenda UM his crowning achievement, his dedication resonates deeply with coffee enthusiasts and professionals alike. This story of passion, innovation, and respect for the land serves as a profound reminder of why we chase these flavors and stories in the world of coffee. From an abandoned farm to a beacon of specialty coffee, Fazenda UM stands as a timeless example of how tradition and innovation can blend to create something truly extraordinary.