Coffee was first introduced into Brazil in Belem do Para, by way of French Guiana at the turn of the 18th century. It is now produced in 17 states but the bulk of production is concentrated in the states of Minas Gerais, Sao Paolo, Paranà and Espirito Santo. The best known coffee is undoubtedly Santos. It shares its name with the Brazilian port, one of the most important with regards to the export of coffee and raw materials in general, and points to the fine coffees produced in the states of Minas Gerais, Sao Paolo and Paranà. There is also the well-known Rio, which initially referred to a particular variety produced in the state of Rio de Janeiro and exported from the port of the same name. Due to the plantations´ proximity to the ocean coast, it is characterized by a distinctive flavour, which recalls salty water or phenol. Nowadays, this coffee is also produced in Zona da Mata, a region in Minas Gerais, and in the state of Espirto Santo. It is exported from the ports of Rio de Janeiro and Vitoria and sold under the name of Rio Minas. The robusta variety Conilon, is also worthy of note and has in a few years grown rapidly from 10% to 25% of the total Brazilian production, and is set to grow further still. This variety, grown mainly in Espirito Santo, is largely reserved for instant coffee production Brazilian coffees are subject to a thorough grading system regulated by COB (Official Brazilian Classification) and alongside the Santos denomination, there are descriptions of the area of origin, size of grain, flavour and crop.
