Baja Wine Country
Welcome to the land made of wine in the remote, yet accessible Valle de Guadalupe wine region of Baja California in Mexico. This wine region was one of the first established in the Americas, dating back to the late 1600's. A peninsula with rich history, traditions and of course, world class wines. Just two hours south of San Diego driving on the Pacific Highway it's a must trip for the adventure seekers. A hidden treasure with a unique sense of place and influence of the Pacific Ocean’s presence. The ocean plays a role in creating a microclimate that allows viticulture to thrive. Warm days and cold nights with the salty breeze coming from west to east. This breeze caresses the vines with pronounced temperature variation and low nutrient soils, all ideal conditions for quality viticulture.
Winemaking was first established back in 1683 by Spanish missionaries that produced sacramental wine and the first commercial winery was established in the region by Bodega Santo Tomas which started operations in 1888 and now is one the most successful quality producers in Baja. This region was also key during the U.S. Prohibition Era, where production grew and contraband was essential for wine lovers that lived stateside.
We highly recommend visiting Baja to disconnect, embrace nature and explore the wines and cuisine of the region.
Where to eat and drink:
La Cocina de Doña Esthela: off the beaten path, only serves breakfast and lunch, showing up early is recommended as it's a popular destination for the famous elote pancakes and goat birria.
Boules Restaurante: eclectic-chic BajaMed restaurant in Ensenada. Great wine list of Mexican wines and cocktails, perfect date night spot.
La Contra Wine Shop: a must visit to get your hands on all the Mexican wines and spirits. (attached to Boules Restaurant).
Bar Andaluz: have a Margarita or two, enjoy the vibe and off to the next bar. Legends say it is the birthplace of the Margarita.
La Concheria: a must visit for seafood lovers. Go for lunch, they close early or sell out of the fresh catches before 5pm.
Fauna Restaurant: want a true bajamed experience, this is the place, indulge and enjoy the bounty of the peninsula.
Finca Altozano: amazing farm to table cuisine with an elegant approach and execution of the fresh produce and proteins.
Loca Bar (Cocktails, Natty Wines and Mezcal): if you love cocktails, a stop to Loca Bar is a must. Cool vibe, super knowledge, friendly staff and delicious libations.
Taqueria La Principal: best fish tacos in Ensenada.
Wendlandt Brewry: there's always a beer aficionado on the trip, go visit and enjoy the freshly brewed beers on the Pacific Coast. We love La Vaquita Marina, Pale Ale.
Wineries: most wineries are family operated, reservations for visits are highly recommended. These are some of our favorites:
Monte Xanic: showcasing terroir driven wines, with elegant expressions of Bordeaux style wines, including Spanish varieties. Try their flagship wine, Don Ricardo.
Cava Maciel: proprietor and winemaker Jorge Maciel is an amazing host, storyteller, go visit him and taste the bounty of Baja. Their Rose and Chardonnay are amazing.
Espuma de Piedra: top quality producer of traditional method sparkling wines. Their Blanc de Noir and Mission Rose are delicious.
Casa Magoni: Italian born founder-winemaker Camillo Magoni is considered one of the most influential pioneers in the region. Try all of their wines and olive oils. Camillo's work and legacy in Baja is widely respected for his approach to sustainability and for helping the region get international recognition. Their Baja Nebbiolo is rocking!
Bodegas F. Rubio: family owned estate with farm to table restaurant is a must visit for lunch. Their Tempranillo and Sangiovese are amazing.