Valle de Grama, Brazil
The Mogiana coffee region, in Valle de Grama, is named after the Companhia Mogiana Estrada de Ferro train line which traversed the mountainous area in the days when communities and farmers depended on this mode of transportation. Known for its rich red soil, Mogiana hugs the border of São and Minas Gerais states, and possesses several unique microclimates that produce varying flavor profiles in the coffees grown there.
Coffee has been a cornerstone of the Brazil's rapid growth: between 1963 and 2013, Brazil's coffee output rose from 23.2 million bags to 50.8 million bags. São Paulo’s mild, warm climate and beautiful beaches makes it a favorite vacation destination, and tourism is a strong industry. Despite its assets, São Paulo has room for economic growth, with interior regions often lacking electricity and basic sanitation. Since coffee is usually grown in such under-developed regions, there is vast potential for improving the lives of producers in the area.