Home · Coffee questions
Coffee guideQuestions about coffee.
The most searched questions, answered directly by people who live coffee in Southern Minas Gerais.
A guide to Ateliê da Lee, an emporium that began as Ateliê do Queijo in 2009, in Suzano (SP), created by Eliana Oliveira, known as Lee, an entrepreneur since 1999.
Updated October 17, 2026
Straight answers to the most searched coffee questions: arabica or robusta, caffeine, how many cups a day, how to store it, shelf life, gourmet vs. specialty coffee, roasting and why coffee turns bitter.
General information, not a substitute for medical advice. Sources: SCA, ABIC, EFSA.
Café da Lee: the standard we follow.
- 100% Arabica, from selected beans.
- Specialty coffee scoring 84+ points on the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) scale.
- Grown in the south of Minas Gerais, in the Montanhas Cafeeiras (Coffee Mountains) region of Juruaia, with identified producer and harvest.
- Small-batch roasting, with the roast date on the package.
- Three lines: Clássico (balanced and sweet), Moka (body and intensity) and Origem (single origin, floral and honey).
Continue exploring the world of coffee.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between arabica and robusta (conilon) coffee?
Arabica is more aromatic and sweet, with pleasant acidity, and is grown at altitude. Robusta (called conilon in Brazil) has more body, more bitterness and about twice the caffeine. Specialty coffees are usually Arabica.
How much caffeine is in a cup of coffee?
It depends on the bean and the brewing method. A cup of filter coffee (about 150 ml) usually has between 60 and 120 mg; an espresso, 60 to 80 mg. Robusta has more caffeine than Arabica.
How many cups of coffee can I drink per day?
For healthy adults, authorities such as the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) consider up to 400 mg of caffeine a day safe, which works out to a few cups. Pregnant women should limit intake to 200 mg. If in doubt, talk to your doctor.
Whole bean or ground coffee: which is better?
Whole bean. Ground coffee loses aroma quickly; grinding just before brewing preserves the flavors.
How should I store coffee?
In an opaque, tightly sealed container, away from light, heat and moisture, at room temperature. Avoid the fridge. Once opened, consume within 30 days.
Does coffee expire?
Yes. Unopened, it usually keeps for 12 months, but the best flavor is in the first few weeks after roasting. That's why it's worth checking the roast date.
What is gourmet coffee?
It's a category of ABIC's Quality Program for high-quality roasted coffees, above the Traditional and Superior categories.
What is specialty coffee?
Coffee scoring 80 points or more on the SCA scale, with no serious defects and traceable origin.
What is the best coffee in Brazil?
The best coffee is the one that suits your taste. Look for specialty coffees (80+ SCA points), 100% Arabica, with origin and roast date. Southern Minas, Cerrado Mineiro and Mantiqueira are among the most award-winning regions.
What does medium roast mean?
It's the balance point between acidity, sweetness and body, the most versatile for everyday drinking.
Is decaf coffee specialty coffee?
It can be, if the original coffee is high quality and decaffeinated using careful processes.
Why does my coffee taste bitter?
Usually caused by boiling water, grinding too fine, too much contact time or stale coffee. Adjust the temperature and the grind.
Why does my coffee taste sour or watery?
Grind too coarse, too little coffee or water too cold. Use more coffee or grind finer.
What are the tasting notes on the package?
They're flavors and aromas perceived when tasting, such as chocolate, caramel or fruit. They're not added ingredients; they come from the bean itself and the roast.
Is Café da Lee specialty coffee?
Yes. Café da Lee is 100% arabica from South Minas, with coffees scoring 84 points or more on the SCA scale, roasted in small batches.
Where can I buy Café da Lee?
At Ateliê da Lee, in Juruaia (MG), and through our 24/7 digital service on WhatsApp (11) 99992-4741. The line is launching soon, with a waiting list.
Your next stop in Juruaia.
Ateliê da LeeRua Vereador Alberto Mario Segreti, 97
Bairro Mirante · Juruaia, MG · CEP 37805-000
Phone and WhatsApp: (11) 99992-4741. Email: atendimento@ateliedalee.com.br. Directions, today's hours and reviews on our Google profile.