Sixth Gear Coffee Zaroca
Savor over a century of Brazilian coffee heritage with Sixth Gear Coffee Zaroca. This specialty blend, sourced from the historic Fazenda Zaroca (est. 1915), delivers full-bodied tradition, remarkable sweetness, and nuanced acidity. With roots running deep in Tres Pontas, Brazil, and managed today by Gilberto Basilio, Zaroca showcases the best the region can offer—rich, classic flavors with modern quality control and sustainable practices.
- Farm: Fazenda Zaroca, Tres Pontas, Brazil—operating at 1250 MASL for enhanced flavor and complexity
- Processing: Natural process, mechanically dried
- Strength: 3rd Gear (medium bodied)—substantial, crowd-pleasing style
- Tasting notes: Bakers chocolate, sweet tobacco, cocoa, malty undertone, very low to moderate acidity
- Versatility: Excels as espresso (1:1.9), cold brew (1:14), or with milk—its profile is robust yet smooth, especially when served as a base for milk drinks or sipped black
- Bean type: Whole bean, 8 oz (226.8g) bags for maximum freshness and grind control
- Sustainability: Ethical, quality-focused production from field to cup
Reviewer impressions: Zaroca is praised for its malty, chocolate-forward profile and smooth, approachable body that bridges the gap between supermarket crowd-pleasers and specialty coffee complexity. Even those used to higher-acid, lighter roasts find it substantial, rich, and easy to enjoy. The tobacco note is subtle, and the chocolate presence is strong—making this coffee a “go-to” for those who appreciate classic flavors with a premium upgrade. Especially suitable for espresso machines or cold brew, Zaroca’s balanced blend adapts well to milk, accentuating its chocolate and subtle sweet character.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Farm | Fazenda Zaroca |
| Region | Tres Pontas, Brazil |
| Altitude | 1250 MASL |
| Processing | Natural, mechanical dry |
| Strength | 3rd Gear (Medium Bodied) |
| Tasting Notes | Bakers chocolate, sweet tobacco, cocoa, malt, low-medium acidity |
| Specialty | Espresso (1:1.9), cold brew (1:14), milk-friendly |
| Bag Size | 8 oz (226.8g), whole bean |
Summary
- Origin: Tres Pontas, Brazil
- Altitude: 1250 MASL
- Strength: Medium (3rd Gear)
- Tasting profile: Bakers chocolate, sweet tobacco, malty, smooth
- Preparation: Espresso, cold brew, or with milk
- Bag: 8 oz, whole bean
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s special about Zaroca?
It brings over 100 years of Brazilian coffee lineage, high-altitude flavor clarity, and a chocolate/tobacco-rich profile that’s smooth and versatile.
Is it best black or with milk?
Both! Its full body and chocolate notes shine black or as a base for lattes and cappuccino. Perfect for espresso lovers and cold brew fans alike.
Is acidity pronounced?
No—Zaroca has moderate to low acidity, allowing cocoa and malty notes to take center stage for a classic, easy-drinking cup.
What brewing method is best?
Ideal for espresso, cold brew, or classic drip with a 1:1.9 espresso ratio or 1:14 cold brew. Also great for French press for a full-bodied experience.
How fresh is the coffee?
As always, best soon after roasting—whole bean format preserves freshness until ready to grind and brew.
Who is Zaroca suited for?
Anyone seeking premium, crowd-pleasing, chocolate-heavy coffee with a smooth, comforting finish—ideal for everyday enjoyment and pairing with cigars or milk drinks.






Daniel O’Connell (verified owner) –
This is what I would call a ‘solid cup of coffee’ – there aren’t any wild or unusual notes, but you get substantial body, low-medium acidity, Dutch cocoa (rather than chocolate in my opinion), and a sweetness I can’t put my finger on (the label says tobacco and that may be a good comparison). In all honesty, I prefer lighter roasts that have a lot going on, or a powerful dark roast for my espresso, so this coffee is a bit in my personal ‘road less traveled’ area, but I don’t want to dock it marks just because it isn’t what I typically buy. This is a great coffee to buy and try for someone who is accustomed mostly to supermarket brands or whose idea of ‘high end’ coffee comes from a chain of some sort – it is a massive step up in quality from those types of coffee but without being so different as to scare someone off. Strongly recommended on quality alone.
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John Barreto (verified owner) –
As someone who likes a full body, less-acidic coffee, this roast is absolutely incredible! There are absolutely beautiful chocolate notes throughout with an unreal tobacco finish. This is my new go-to bean for my espresso maker. Would go beautifully with a chocolatey maduro blend. It is most definitely worth a try!
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Alexander S (verified owner) –
I absolutely got bakers chocolate notes. More specifically it tastes like powdered coco. Very intense, in a good way. I loved it. I am more of a medium dark coffee guy so I am really looking for to the 4th gear version. I will continue to buy these packs until my all time favorite is back in stock – Peter James’ Panna Pura.
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