There’s something about a tropical coloured info card that comes with this Origin Coffee that makes me taste Sítio Maranhão straight from the bag. Sítio Maranhão by Origin Coffee is one of the most famous bags I have bought, its claim to fame? Second place at the 2024 Especialísximo Awards and a cupping score of 89.4. I have just recently learned about cupping (from the people at Origin Coffee) and it’s interesting, a lot of slurping. The bag sets the tone with tasting notes of pear, raspberry, and molasses but will it live up to the hype in my home test kitchen?! That’s all that matters because it is talking a big big game.
Brew Method
I brewed this on a bright morning using an Aeropress at a 1:16 ratio. The control of the Aeropress really helped draw out the juicy fruit elements while keeping the body refined. The beans were ground medium-coarse on my Timemore C3 Pro, water just off boil on a goose neck keetle, and I let the bloom sit for 30 seconds before stirring 5 times and then a slow, steady pour and a final settle and stir.
Then a slow steady press into my wee pink ceramic mug.
Taste Profile of Sítio Maranhão
From the first sip, this coffee was molasses heavy, I got that big sticky smooth brown sugar flavour wash over my tongue. There definitely was a note of pear but more green not totally ripe pear and raspberry come through bright and juicy as a balancing with the molasses note acting as a rich, slightly sticky base that brings it all together. The acidity is citrusy like a berry compote but clean, and as it cools, a whisper more on those light fruit notes that lingers on the finish. The body is jammy and rounded, perfect for slow sipping.
I also think there must be so much more to this coffee that maybe I am just not getting. I have brewed this twice two different ways and yes it is a banging cup of coffee. No doubt! But here, I don’t think it’s the second best coffee I have had this year to be honest. But sure what do I know…
About Sítio Maranhão
- Origin: Brazil
- Region: Caldas, Região Vulcânica, Sul de Minas
- Producers: Edivair & Luciane de Carvalho
- Process: Natural
- Varietal: Yellow Catucaí
- Elevation: 1250 MASL
- Cupping Score: 89.4
About Origin Coffee Roasters
Origin Coffee is a B Corp certified roastery known for ethical sourcing and direct relationships with producers. Their commitment to quality and transparency shines here: this coffee was purchased for $6.00/lb, 114% above the C market. This level of care at the sourcing level is exactly what allows such flavour nuance to shine through in the final cup.
Final Thoughts
I have no doubt that in the right hands, Sítio Maranhão is one of those coffees you want to brew for someone to show off what specialty can be. It’s potential out weighs my skill. However, still in with my novice home brew I found it bold, fruity, and refined all at once. Whether you’re a filter enthusiast or just love Brazilian beans, this one hits the sweet spot.
Quick Info on Origin Coffee
- Name: Sítio Maranhão
- Roaster: Origin Coffee
- Flavour Notes: Pear, Raspberry, Molasses
- Best For: Filter brews and Areopress
- Cupping Score: 89.4
- Origin: Brazil
- Region: Sul de Minas
Check out more coffee reviews over at the Collins Coffee Corner.
