Luiz Paulo Dias Pereira and the Pereira Family

Luiz Paulo Dias Pereira Filho is a fourth-generation coffee producer deeply embedded in the history and culture of Carmo de Minas, a region in the Minas Gerais state of Brazil. As the eldest of four brothers, he represents a lineage of coffee growers who have long recognized the unique flavor potential of their local terroir. Alongside his cousin, Jacques Pereira Carneiro, Luiz Paulo has been instrumental in shifting the perception of Brazilian coffee from a commodity-focused market to a source of high-end, specialty-grade microlots.

In 2007, Luiz Paulo and Jacques Pereira Carneiro founded Carmo Coffees, an exporting and quality-development company. This venture serves as a cornerstone of their work, providing agronomic and sensory support to more than 2,000 small- and midsize farm owners in the region. By fostering a community-focused model, they have successfully created a platform for local producers to access global specialty markets, effectively valorizing coffees that were previously undervalued.

Beyond his work as an exporter, Luiz Paulo is a dedicated farmer who manages several estates, including the notable Fazenda Santuário Sul. This farm functions as an experimental breeding ground where he cultivates a diverse collection of exotic and unusual coffee varieties. His approach is characterized by a commitment to innovation, often utilizing advanced processing techniques such as anaerobic fermentation to push the boundaries of what Brazilian coffee can achieve in the cup.

His family history is closely tied to the development of the region's coffee infrastructure. For instance, Fazenda IP, a property managed by Luiz Paulo, saw significant expansion under his leadership starting in 1974. He implemented rigorous quality control measures, including a bonus system for processing employees who achieved scores above 80 points, which helped cultivate a team of experts dedicated to precision and excellence.

Luiz Paulo’s influence extends to the global stage, where he is frequently sought out for his expertise in rare varieties and processing methods. His work has been featured in high-profile industry events and by specialty roasters worldwide, who value his ability to produce consistent, high-scoring coffees. His efforts have helped place Carmo de Minas on the map as a premier origin for specialty coffee, challenging traditional notions of Brazilian production.

Today, the Pereira family remains a central force in the region, with their various estates—such as Irmãs Pereira and Santuário Sul—serving as models for sustainable and quality-driven farming. Luiz Paulo continues to focus on the continuous improvement of his coffees, viewing the process as an evolving journey. His work remains a vital link between the traditional heritage of Brazilian coffee farming and the modern, innovation-led demands of the global specialty market.