Sitting at a table under the trees, I asked our tour guide “so how long has Mexico been producing wine?” As I swirled my glass, he took a sip from his and answered “oh, about 130 years”. And that’s how I learned that Mexican wine is seriously underrated. And wine tasting in Mexico? An unmissable bucket-list experience! Valle de Guadalupe is a wine region in Mexico, about two hours south of the San Diego border.
Before my first trip to Mexico I always imagined palm trees, beaches and tacos. I never imagined the beautiful hills and valleys and the hundreds of wine farms and producers nestled within the Valle. If you’re visiting North America and you only have a couple of days planned for wine tasting, you might be thinking Napa. But a wine tour in Valle de Guadalupe is the perfect way to get your first taste of Mexican food, wine and culture. Especially if you’re on budget, since wine tasting in Mexico costs about of third of what you’d spend in the Napa Valley.
Wine tasting in Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico
We stayed in Baja California, at a rented villa in Rosarito Beach. It’s a quick drive from the border, and there are lots of restaurants, bars and some good shopping in the area. Valle de Guadalupe is about an hour’s drive away. This valley is the hottest up-and-coming wine tourism destination right now, so make sure to get in before the crowds.
We booked a tour with Baja Food and Wine and set off for a day of exploring. Our guide, Fernando Castro, took us to some of the most beautiful wine farms I’ve visited, and had everything organised from start to finish. He’s exactly the kind of local you wish could show you around, and everyone knows him.
Encuentro Guadalupe Winery
Perched on top of a rocky mountain, Encuentro Guadalupe’s tasting room has views across the stunning valley, with stunning wines to match. It’s also a 4-star eco hotel, so if you have time, I’d highly recommend spending the night! We enjoyed a red wine tasting, ranging from light reds like Nebbiolo (one of my favourites) to heavier reds like Cabernet Sauvignon.
Website: www.grupoencuentro.com.mx
Adobe Guadalupe
Wine tasting under the trees, beautiful architecture and delicious tapas make Adobe Guadalupe a must-stop. We had the VIP tasting experience (best for groups) and then sat down for a few snacks, served from a super cute retro Airstream trailer.
Website: www.adobeguadalupe.com
Finca La Carrodilla
This was my favourite farm of the day. There’s a really beautiful tasting room and outdoor seating area, but thanks to our guide Fernando, we were treated to a private cellar tasting with the winemaker. Everything from the winemaker himself to the branding and labels are extremely cool and I know you’re going to love this experience.
Website: www.fincalacarrodilla.mx
Animalon
Incredible food, served in a magical setting. Tables are underneath the canopy of a hundred year old oak tree. Lanterns hang from the branches and you feel like you’re dining inside a treehouse of sorts. The Michelin star trained chef produces Mediterranean food that is fresh, beautiful and a celebration of local fare.
Website: www.animalonbaja.com
Cuatro Cuatros
There could be better place to see the sunset that at Bar V Bar at Cuatro Cuatros. The drive out is slightly out of the way, but thanks to Fernando we made it just in time to see the sky change to a painting of pinks and purples. It was packed and there was lots of tequila flowing and a great vibe. Make sure to book ahead!
Website: www.cabanascuatrocuatros.com.mx
The Mexican wine industry has been going for a long time, and they are producing some exceptional wines and offering some exceptional wine tasting experiences. If you love good food and good wine, planning a wine tour in Mexico is highly recommended!
Plan your wine tasting tour in Mexico
Our tour with Baja Food and Wine cost around $200 per person including transport, tastings and lunch as well as dinner. It was so well organised and we just got to enjoy the day, not having to worry about driving, paying or getting lost.
