Best Wineries Revealed

Two of the best wineries in Valle de Guadalupe in Baja Mexico revealed. 

1) Monte Xanic 

Perched atop an amber mountain sits Monte Xanic, one of the finest wineries in Valle de Guadalupe, Ensenada’s own dreamlike wine valley. The spacious, modern building blends seamlessly with its desert–like surroundings and echoes with the sounds of joyous vinos. A private tour reveals the largest wine cellar in Latin America, carved into and cooled by the ancient stone of the mountain. The entire process of winemaking at Monte Xanic is fueled by nature and gravity, the wine flowing downward into the cellar’s aged barrels. 

Monte Xanic produces a total of 14 wines and exports 7–a select few of which you can find at your local Whole Foods. We suggest trying the award–winning Sauvignon Blanc first, a sweet and crisp serenade of flavors. Next, the cabernet, a bold but well–balanced mix of red berries that you almost have to chew. And finally, Calixa, a mix of cabernet and syrah specifically blended for younger drinkers. Since Mexico is not traditionally a wine–drinking country, Monte Xanic is trying to woo in a younger crowd with Calixa, but we don’t think it’ll have any trouble wooing you, too. 

"Xanic" is the Native American word for "first flower after the rain," and, one of the oldest wineries in the Valle de Guadalupe, Monte Xanic is the proverbial first flower of the valley.

2) Hacienda La Lomita

Hacienda La Lomita is like the younger, hipper cousin of Monte Xanic. Nestled a little deeper in the valley and hidden along a dirt road, Hacienda La Lomita is a family–owned and operated venture with a signature pride of place. Custom artwork adorns the walls of the tasting room, but take a step outside and see the operation firsthand. All of Hacienda La Lomita’s equipment is mobile, allowing the winemakers to push it over portholes in the floor that lead to the next step below (free–flow winemaking is employed here, too). The third level deep below is, like Monte Xanic, a cellar carved into the natural earth surrounding the winery. 

Hacienda La Lomita’s wines are award–winning and as varied as any connoisseur could dream. From the chardonnay, which is as sweet and drinkable as juice, to deep, smoky reds. And if you can get your hands on a bottle of their Artisanal wine, a different varietal of which they produce every year using the best grapes, you must try it. Made with zero control in French oak barrels, it’s guaranteed to be one of the best wines to touch your tongue this year.

After your tasting, wander down to Hacienda La Lomita’s own restaurant. Set on lush green grass and nestled in between rows upon rows of gnarled grape vines, the outdoor restaurant is a feast for the eyes and mouth. Trust the chef with your dinner for a tasty sensation of local flavors.

Whether you’re looking for a day away or a weekend full of wine, Valle de Guadalupe and her vast array of wineries will please your palate as much as a trip to Napa or Tuscany–without that pesky plane ride. 

Written By Emily Glaser