Tucked into the misty mountains of Oaxaca, Mexico, a once-forgotten estate has been transformed into one of the country’s most inspiring specialty coffee stories. Las Nieves, established in 1880, had long faded from its former glory, until Gustavo Boltjes Rising and his cooperative stepped in.
In 2006, Gustavo began breathing life back into the land, guided by a bold vision rooted in sustainability, community, and uncompromising quality. What followed wasn’t just a revival, it was a complete reimagining of what a coffee farm could be.
Las Nieves now runs entirely on renewable energy, powered by solar panels, hydroelectric systems, and biodiesel generators. The farm embraces biodiversity through a polyculture system, growing coffee beneath a vibrant canopy of native forest that not only protects the ecosystem but also enhances the complexity of the coffee itself.
But it’s not just about farming practices, it’s about people. As a cooperative, Las Nieves is committed to creating fair, dignified jobs at competitive wages. Members share in the farm’s success through profit-sharing, access to agro-ecological resources, and a deep culture of collaboration. Gustavo and his team regularly exchange knowledge with neighboring farmers, helping to elevate coffee quality across this historically underserved region.
At the heart of this movement is Gustavo himself, one of Mexico’s few certified Q-Graders, a prestigious distinction held by coffee professionals trained to identify and evaluate the most subtle nuances in flavor and aroma. His expertise sets a high bar for quality, guiding every decision from tree to drying bed to final roast.
That dedication is fully realized in their 2024 Las Nieves #1 winning Natural Geisha, a coffee that stole the spotlight at the Mexico Cup of Excellence with a standout score of 91.13. Grown between 1,150 and 1,500 meters, this meticulously processed natural Geisha delivers a cup as vibrant as the community behind it.
From the first sip, it’s clear why this coffee earned top marks. It opens with a rich maple sweetness and a touch of roasted peanut, then brightens into juicy watermelon and peach. Floral undertones and ripe blackberry add elegance, while the juicy body and silky mouthfeel carry through to a clean, lasting finish.
With only 200 pounds available and a winning bid of $75.10 per pound at auction, this is a rare and unforgettable expression of Mexican coffee excellence. But more than that, it’s a reflection of shared vision, environmental commitment, and the power of collective progress.
Las Nieves isn’t just growing coffee. It’s growing opportunity, connection, and world-class quality, one cherry at a time.
