José Alexandre Lacerda

About the Farm

Sítio Forquilha do Rio is located in the mountainous region of Pedra Menina, within the Caparaó area, at elevations ranging between approximately 1,100 and 1,400 meters above sea level. These altitude conditions, combined with a mild climate and well-distributed rainfall, allow for slower cherry development and contribute to greater sweetness and complexity in the cup.

The farm is managed as a family operation, where each stage of production is carried out with attention to quality and long-term sustainability, including the protection of natural water sources and the surrounding environment.

Production Approach

Production at Sítio Forquilha do Rio is based on careful harvesting, selective picking, and consistent post-harvest practices. The combination of altitude and controlled processing methods allows the development of balanced and expressive coffees.

The farm works with a range of processes, including Natural, CD Honey, Natural Moka, and Natural Anaerobic, adapting techniques to highlight the characteristics of each lot while maintaining clarity and structure in the final cup.

Background

José Alexandre Lacerda represents the third generation of coffee producers in his family. Over the years, the family has built a strong reputation for quality within the region, combining traditional knowledge with continuous improvement in farming and processing practices.

His work has been recognized in regional competitions, including a first-place award in the EMATER-MG contest with a natural coffee scoring 92.8 points, reinforcing the farm’s position within the specialty coffee segment.