If you’re thinking about going wine tasting, the usual suspects might pop in your head like Napa, Sonoma, or Sicily, yet most don’t realize there is an amazing wine region in northern Baja Mexico known as the Valle de Guadalupe. Listen to the podcast episode above featuring Griselda Beck from Latina Boss Coach of her experience wine tasting at the Valle de Guadalupe.

The Valle de Guadalupe is where you can go, let your hair down, and feel like family. It’s not a pretentious experience, most of the year it doesn’t have large crowds and you can taste amazing wines, even with grapes brought to the region from Italy, the Nebbiolo, which has a deep red berry flavor. This region is also known for its red blends. It is a beautiful, rustic experience, where you can meet the owners of these vineyards, learn their story and truly live in the moment.

Imagine arriving at an exceptional winery, without crowds, and being greeted with homemade food from the winery’s family, and having a moment to breathe in the Valle’s fresh air while sipping on bold reds. That is an experience to remember and embrace.

The Valle de Guadalupe 90 minutes south of the San Diego/Tijuana U.S. Border. If you want to make the border crossing quickly, it’s recommended that you have Global Entry. While you can make a very long day trip out of it from San Diego it’s suggested to stay in Rosarito, Ensenada or stay at a secluded boutique hotel in the Valle. Rosarito Beach Hotel is a highly recommended hotel that has stunning views of the ocean. Pro Tip: sign up for their newsletter for great deals throughout the year.

If you’re looking at going wine tasting in the Valle, two wineries you can’t miss are Vina de Frannes and Vinos Pijoan. It’s highly suggested to arrange a driver/tour for your day of wine tasting that way you can taste more along the day without the worry of drinking and driving and go with a knowledgeable guide. Griselda and her friend highly recommend using Israel with Vinalia Tours as a driver and guide for a day of wine tasting.

Pro-tip, when wine tasting, swirl to get the aromas, and the legs (streaks) that it forms, the thicker, the more full-bodied the wine. The flavors are deeper. Tilt it back and take a sip!

Honestly, you can’t go wrong as the weather is very palatable year-round, yet note that Fall and Spring have the best weather. If you’re in for a party, lots of people, music then consider going during the Harvest Festival time, which is the last week of July through the 3rd week of August. If you are planning on going during this time, make sure to book your accommodations well in advance.

You don’t need to have a COVID test or show vaccination to enter Mexico by car (as of October 2021). Some of the larger wineries will be stricter around masking and social distancing, while smaller wineries are more relaxed. Go with your comfort level in mind and don’t travel if you’re experiencing symptoms or have been exposed.

The larger wineries have more accessible walkways and this can absolutely be an accessible experience. Recommend working with a local tour guide like Vinalia Tours who can advise on the most accessible locations.

The wineries in the Valle are more relaxed than what you would find in Napa, so you can dress more casual (or as fancy as you’d like). Use the opportunity to let your hair down, relax, and get to know the locals. Tipping is recommended $1-$2 per glass and to tip more if the winery gives additional information like driving directions, recommendations, etc.

Hacienda de Guadalupe has an amazing breakfast and if you’re into seafood, check out Las Brisas. See Griselda’s complete guide on where to eat and additional wineries to try.