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Abstract

Appropriate techniques for cultivation in highland regions are recommended within the planning of coffee crop based on agroecological zoning. To establish sustainable production systems combining economic viability, social welfare and environmental protection is the great challenge. The geographical area of the Denomination of Origin 'Mountains of Espírito Santo' is composed of sixteen municipalities, totaling 8,438.20 km². Coffee plantations are located on sloping ground between 500 m and 1,200 m with increased use of rust-tolerant/resistant coffee cultivars that are adapted, productive and have good cup quality. Conservationist practices are used to increase the water reservoir in the soil. Two main types of processing are used in post-harvest: natural and wet. Altitude has been identified as the most relevant geographical attribute for sensory quality in this region. Coffee grades ranging from 76.38 to 95.13 points have being found. Pulped coffees have flavors of cane molasses, red fruits, caramel, chocolate, spices, floral, vanilla, citric acidity, shiny, liqueur, velvety, intense and medium body. Natural coffees present flavors of wine, yellow fruits, caramel, chocolate, dulce de leche, spices, honey, lemon balm, pepper, almond, citric acid, bright, liqueur, intense and medium body. The Geographic Indication (GI) of the 'Mountain coffee of Espírito Santo' will contribute to the expression of attributes related to culture, traditions, identities, food security, social differences, and standardization of coffee quality given the peculiarities found in the diversity of ecosystems. This will provide worldwide recognition as a region for the production of a diversity of special and sustainable coffees. It will lead the region towards the socioeconomic sustainability of the population based on ecological coffee farming.