Mexico's Renowned Wine Region In Baja California Offers Stellar Tastings And Tours

Mexico conjures images of sun-soaked beaches, palm trees swaying in the breeze, and bottomless margaritas, but the expansive North American nation offers so much more. Mexico is diverse, with landscapes ranging from lush tropical forests to arid mountains. It's also home to a fantastic wine region, comparable to California's stunning wine destinations.

Instead of defaulting to Napa Valley or Sonoma County when you're in the mood for a wine-inspired getaway, consider visiting Mexico's Valle de Guadalupe, or Guadalupe Valley. Located in the Mexican state of Baja California, it's only 90 miles south of San Diego. To get there, you can fly into San Diego Airport or fly to the Tijuana International Airport (both less than 2 hours away) and drive from there. Valle de Guadalupe is surrounded by mountains and located about 15 miles inland from the Pacific Ocean. The rolling hillsides are scattered with massive boulders, and miles of vineyards stretch endlessly towards the horizon. Picture Joshua Tree's otherworldly arid beauty combined with Napa Valley's lush vineyards and you'll have a good idea of what to expect in Valle de Guadalupe.

SoCal locals could easily plan a day trip, and for everyone else it's the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. Wine-making traditions in Valle de Guadalupe date back to the 1500s, but the region remained under the radar until very recently. Over the past decade, word has gotten out and Valle de Guadalupe is quickly becoming a tourist hotspot. The Mediterranean climate creates the perfect conditions for wine production, and the region is full of luxurious accommodations, gourmet restaurants, and gorgeous natural scenery. Whether you're in search of a romantic experience with your special someone or a place to reconnect with family and friends, you'll fall in love with Valle de Guadalupe.

The cool air from the ocean combined with the rich terroir creates the perfect grape-growing conditions in Valle de Guadalupe. Summers are hot and dry, and winters are mild and wet. Harvest season, which occurs in August, is an ideal time to visit. It's a wonderful destination year-round if you're looking for warm-weather wineries. 

Spanish colonizers brought grapes with them from Europe and planted seeds that would eventually transform the rugged countryside into Mexico's largest wine-producing region. Today, about 90% of Mexico's wine comes from the area, and there are around 11,000 acres of vineyards. The most prominent grape varieties in the region include cabernet sauvignon, merlot, nebbiolo, zinfandel, colombard, Chenin blanc, semillon, sauvignon blanc, and chardonnay.

There are over 150 wineries to explore in Valle de Guadalupe. Eco-conscious travelers will love visiting Finca La Carrodilla which is the first certified organic vineyard in Valle de Guadalupe. There are 34 acres of vineyards, and the owner is dedicated to sustainable agriculture and conscious development. Wine tastings are offered on the property's rooftop garden. JC Bravo Winery is owned by Juan Carlos Bravo, who was born in Valle de Guadalupe. His father moved to the area in the 1940s and planted the first vineyards. Today, the 50-acre vineyard remains family-owned and operated.

Lovers of unique architecture should head to Clos de Tres Cantos. Designed by a Mexican architect named Alejandro D'Acosta, the unique property features pyramid-shaped structures built out of locally sourced and recycled materials. Visitors can enjoy a tour of the property followed by wine in the tasting room, where guests are encouraged to connect at the "Endless Table."

No wine country trip would be complete without beautiful accommodations, and travelers visiting Valle de Guadalupe will have plenty to choose from. Encuentro Guadalupe is a 3-star hotel designed to celebrate "rest, joy, life, and art," according to its website. The eco-friendly property has 20 "lofts" nestled amongst boulders on a hillside overlooking the valley. The sleek minimalist design and beautiful views provide the perfect place to relax after a day of wining and dining. There's a small winery on the property and a restaurant that serves fresh seafood and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. Rooms start at around $300 per night. Casa Gracia, designed by architect Jorge Gracia, has a similar modern aesthetic and is perfect for large groups. Guests will love the floor-to-ceiling windows, a sunny terrace, a private swimming pool, a fully equipped kitchen, and a spacious outdoor barbecue.

El Cielo is a popular vineyard in Valle De Guadalupe with a luxurious resort. Guests can relax in one of 80 suites equipped with high-end amenities. Enjoy fine dining at two onsite restaurants, explore the vineyards, and indulge in wine tastings without ever leaving the property. Rooms start at $245 per night.

Valle de Guadalupe is perfect for foodies, and multiple local restaurants have received Michelin stars. At Animalón you can dine on contemporary Mexican cuisine under the branches of an ancient oak tree. Conchas de Piedra serves delicious local seafood and has received both a Michelin star and a Michelin green star for sustainability. For an option that's wallet-friendly without sacrificing flavor, head to La Cocina de Doña Esthela, which has received a Michelin bib gourmand. Authentic Mexican flavors are served in a warmly rustic restaurant where you can order breakfast all day.