Our Nahual Edition comes from the Montaña Alta region in the state of Guerrero—a remote and often overlooked part of Mexico, mostly inhabited by the indigenous Me’phaa people. Though it represents just 0.35% of the national territory, this mountainous region is home to a vibrant and biodiverse landscape, nurtured by a community of dedicated producers.

The farms in Montaña Alta are small—often less than one hectare—and resemble miniature jungles. Coffee is grown under the canopy of timber and fruit trees in traditional agroforestry systems. These systems offer essential environmental services, buffer the effects of climate change, and help conserve biodiversity. Notably, Guerrero produces nearly 90% natural process coffee, distinguishing it from other Mexican states where washed coffee dominates.

Despite its ecological richness, Montaña Alta faces serious challenges. It is one of the most marginalized and impoverished regions in Mexico. Poverty has led many locals to migrate to the U.S. or northern Mexico. Drug trafficking has taken root in vulnerable areas, reinforcing negative perceptions and discouraging outside investment. Few coffee companies are willing to engage here, allowing oligopolies to thrive—offering unfair prices and showing little regard for the region’s potential or people. Moreover, the area remains unsafe for women, with prevailing patterns of machismo and misogyny limiting their opportunities and safety.

Ensambles Connects with La Montaña

Before Ensambles began working in the region, almost all coffee purchasing was controlled by a monopoly, severely limiting the income of producers. Since 2017, Ensambles, in collaboration with the Bios Terra Institute, has worked alongside growers in Guerrero—offering training in sustainable practices, improving quality through education and mobile lab evaluations, and connecting producers with national and international markets.

Through these efforts, Ensambles is helping transform La Montaña—not only as a place of exceptional coffee, but as a landscape of possibility, resilience, and renewal.