Ernesto Illy Award Recognizes Minas Gerais Coffee as “Best of the Best”
Minas Gerais has once again claimed global recognition for its coffee, taking home the prestigious “Best of the Best” title at the International Coffee Awards 2024. This accolade, awarded by illycaffè, is one of the most significant honors in the coffee industry.
Award-Winning Coffee from Araponga
The winner, Fazenda Serra do Boné in Araponga, Minas Gerais, is owned by producer Matheus Lopes Sanglard. The farm’s innovative pulped coffee production technique enhances natural sugar levels and intensifies aromas, setting its coffee apart.
Employing regenerative agricultural practices, Fazenda Serra do Boné prioritizes soil health, biodiversity, and sustainable productivity through the use of organic fertilizers and biological controls. According to illycaffè, this commitment has solidified the farm’s position as a leader in specialty coffee production in 2024.
Expert Evaluation
The award was based on criteria such as aromatic richness, sweetness, and complexity. The winning coffee, described as creamy, sweet, and full-bodied, offers a refined balance of fresh fruit aromas, caramel tones, subtle brown sugar notes, and a lingering chocolate finish with floral hints of jasmine.
The evaluation process included blind tastings of 39 coffee lots by nine international specialists. The celebration took place on November 13 in New York City, bringing together esteemed chefs, coffee industry experts, and professional tasters.
Other Category Winners
In addition to the “Best of the Best” award, the event also recognized winners from nine unique coffee-growing regions that contribute to Illy’s exclusive blends.
- “Coffee Lovers’ Choice” Award: SMS Cluster ECOM, Nicaragua, won this category through a global public vote.
Past Brazilian Champions
Brazil’s consistent dominance in the competition reflects its exceptional coffee quality:
- 2020: Fazenda Pai e Filho (Cerrado Mineiro, MG) – Renowned for its balanced flavors and chocolate notes.
- 2021: Fazenda Primavera (Chapada de Minas, MG) – Celebrated for its floral aromas and caramel undertones.
- 2022 & 2023: São Mateus Agropecuária (Cerrado Mineiro, MG) – Recognized for its full-bodied profile and commitment to sustainability.
Global Impact and Sustainability
The event underscored the growing influence of Brazilian specialty coffee on the international stage, showcasing its sustainability-driven production practices and unrivaled flavor profiles.
With each award, Brazil strengthens its reputation as a leader in premium coffee production, rivaling traditional powerhouses like Colombia and Ethiopia.
