BRAZIL, Fazenda Arema
By Martine De Haes & Euller A. Rangel
for Onan Coffee & Tea
19° 33' 33.3" S, 45° 58' 01.5" W
In July 2024, a second KU Lot was established at Fazenda Arema, Onan’s youngest Direct Trade farm. Led by the dynamic Belgo-Brazilian couple Martine and Euller, this farm has been a hub of innovation and education since the partnership began in 2019. With a strong commitment to climate-friendly and eco-conscious practices, Fazenda Arema focuses on sustainable production whilst striving for self-sufficiency, including their own water supply and coffee washing station. Rejecting monoculture farming, they champion biodiversity and resilience. Discover the chocolate and hazelnut notes of this exceptional Brazilian coffee in the KU Leuven 600 Years blend.
A Farm with focus on innovation and Sustainability
Tucked away in the heart of the Cerrado Mineiro region, Fazenda Arema is a shining example of innovation and dedication in coffee cultivation. Established just over four years ago by Martine, a Belgian coffee enthusiast, and her Brazilian husband Euller, this farm has quickly made a name for itself in the world of specialty coffee. With a deep respect for nature and a commitment to sustainable practices, Fazenda Arema is not just about growing coffee; it is about cultivating a future where quality and environmental responsibility go hand in han
KUp private Lot: A Commitment to Biodiversity
One of the most exciting developments on the farm has been the introduction of the second KU Lot in July 2024. This lot, developed in collaboration with Onan Coffee & Tea, highlights the farm’s dedication to biodiversity and eco-conscious farming. Instead of following traditional monoculture practices, Fazenda Arema embraces a more resilient approach, integrating shade plants and local species to protect the coffee trees from climate change-related challenges such as increased drought. Their focus on self-sufficiency, including their own water supply and coffee washing station, ensures that every step of the production process aligns with their sustainability goals.
A Coffee with a Story to Tell
Beyond their agricultural innovations, Fazenda Arema’s coffee tells a story of flavour and craftsmanship. Their catuai vermelho, with its rich chocolate and hazelnut notes, was included in the limited KU Leuven 600 Years blend. This unique coffee is the result of years of dedication, meticulous processing, and a passion for producing high-quality beans that truly represent the land they come from. Through direct trade partnerships, Fazenda Arema ensures that every bean reaches Leuven with the same care and integrity with which it was grown.
A Personal Journey of Dedication
The journey of Fazenda Arema is deeply personal. Euller, a former professional football player, found a new calling in coffee after an unexpected turn in his career led him back to his roots. With generations of coffee farming in his blood, he and Martine have worked tirelessly to transform their plantation into a model of sustainable production. Their hands-on approach—literally delivering their first crop to Onan themselves—speaks to their commitment and love for what they do.
Looking Towards the Future
As Fazenda Arema continues to grow, so too does its impact on the world of specialty coffee. With each harvest, they reaffirm their dedication to producing coffee that is not only exceptional in taste but also a force for good in the environment and the communities they support. The KU Leuven 600 Years blend is a testament to their vision: a coffee that honours the past, embraces the present, and looks boldly towards the future.
KNOWLEGDE KNOWS NO END.
