Silvio Leite has over 40 years of experience in the coffee industry, with a reputation that speaks for itself. Widely regarded as one of the world’s top cuppers and a global leader, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the specialty coffee landscape in Brazil and beyond.
As the co-founder of the Cup of Excellence program, Silvio has served as Head Judge in more than 30 of its competitions. His influence extends worldwide, having travelled extensively to deliver coffee lectures and conduct cupping training.
Fazenda Cerca de Pedra São Benedito represents the realization of Silvio’s long-held dream to produce his own coffee after decades of representing other producers. He acquired the 30-hectare farm in 2019, with six hectares currently dedicated to coffee cultivation.
As Silvio shared in 2021, “This farm is the fulfilment of a dream. After over 40 years in the coffee business, my dream of producing my own coffee has finally come true with Fazenda Cerca de Pedra São Benedito and my first harvest.”
He’s not doing it alone, though. Silvio has assembled a stellar team to assist with operations: Antônio Rigno serves as his advisor, Kleumon Silva Moreira manages the farm, and Wedson Marques de Souza lends a hand. Each of them has achieved success on their own farms, and their years of collaboration with Silvio have fostered deep mutual respect and trust.
Silvio envisions the farm as “a model… a coffee school to showcase how to sustainably produce specialty coffee.” With the assistance of an agronomist, they are sharing this knowledge with many small producers in the region who may lack the resources for external consultation and advice.
The future of Fazenda Cerca de Pedra São Benedito is undoubtedly bright.
This information and images have kindly been shared with us by our incredible import partners Melbourne Coffee Merchants. We thank them for helping us share Silvio Leite's story.
