BajaNomad

Baja Wines

Martyman - 9-15-2010 at 10:31 AM

Monday, September 13, 2010



Mexican Vintners and 'World Class' Wines are Gaining Fame



'Vino-Tourism' by Steve Dryden



· Baja California grapes to Napa



Mexico was the first country in all the Americas to introduce high quality grapes onto this continent. It was the Spaniards who, in 1521, first planted vines in Mexico.



Vitis vinifera (common grape vine) is a species of Vitis “native to the Mediterranean region, central Europe, and southwestern Asia, from Morocco and Spain north to southern Germany and east to northern Iran.”



Despite an early introduction to grape growing and wine making in Mexico, it’s only been over the last 20 years that the quality of most Mexicans wines has truly evolved. Moreover, in the last ten years the number of wineries in and around the grape growing regions of Ensenada, Baja California has grown from six wineries to over 45 today, with many more being developed or in the planning stages.



And, for at least five years a handful of Baja California wineries have been producing, and continue to make, world class wines.



L.A Cetto winery has been awarded over two hundred international awards over the last few years, thus placing Mexican wines before many experienced judges and wine connoisseurs. In addition, Camillo Magoni (Cetto’s winemaker) was named the “Top Winemaker in the World” for 2004 by an independent European publisher.



Recently other Baja California wines have also received numerous awards and positioning among the world’s better wines. Some of the top labels in this region are Vinisterra, Pau Pijoan, Baron Balch’e, Tres Valles, Vinart, Adobe Guadalupe, Viñedos LaFargo, Vinicola Torres Alegre, and Vinas La Garza, to name but a few.



Vitivinicola Emeve 2008 Malbec was the big winner (Grand Gold Medal) at Ensenada'a 2010 International Wine Competition, held on August 7 and 8, in competition with wines from about a dozen countries. And this wine is still available at the winery, located near Adobe Guadalupe Vineyard/B&B, open Sat/Sun from noon to 6 p.m.



Despite a serious lack of water in Valle de Guadalupe, the quality of the fruit is superior to grapes grown around southern California. In fact, many wineries in San Diego have been purchasing Mexican grapes, transforming them into premium wine, and winning international awards. Witch Creek Winery in Carlsbad, California has won several medals using Baja California grown grapes in their wines.



As well, this year I’ve spoken with two top California winemakers who have bought selected rows of local grapes to take back home to Napa in hopes of making quality wine.



The Baja California wine industry should see another boom in the next year or two with the implementation of a recycled water program that will provide the Guadalupe Valley with eight times more water than is available today. We just might see one hundred wineries in the next ten years.



In the meantime, many wineries are open for wine tasting on weekends with or without reservations. A few wineries are open during the week, including: L.A. Cetto, with free tasting; Tres Mujeres — reservations and $5 person; Liceaga at $7 person — picnic area; Casa Vieja at $3 person — with a new food venue; Viños Fuentes — free tastings; and Viñas de Garza — reservations.



Three newer wineries await your exploration: Hacienda la Lomita, Viñedos las Nubes, and the new facility of JC Bravo Family Winery.



Late September and October is “prime time” in the wine country, with pleasant temperatures and less-crowded wine tasting room conditions. Lodging is available at several price points: Hotel Plaza Fatima on Highway 3 in San Antonio de las Minas, at Km 92. [52] (646) 192-4531 or www.hotelplazafatima@aol.com; Hacienda Guadalupe, Highway 3 in the center of the valley, at Km 81.5, [52] (646) 151-3273 Mexico or (714) 313-5138 in the US, plus www.haciendaguadalupehotel.com; or in Ensenada: Costa Baja Condo Hotel, which overlooks the harbor and has great rates, restaurant, bar and pool. Downtown. [52] (646) 177-2255.



——————————

For a Baja California Wine Route map, click on MexiData.info "Links," and go to "Mexico Maps and Time Zones"



Steve Dryden is a wine, food and travel writer living in Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico’s premier wine country in northwestern Baja California, where he guides individual and small group wine tours. He can be reached at sbdryden@hotmail.com. Visit his blog at www.winefoodguide.com or www.bajawineandcuisine.com

JESSE - 9-15-2010 at 11:22 AM

i couldnt disagree more.

Pompano - 9-15-2010 at 11:37 AM

Until I find a Baja wine that compares in quality, and is even 'close' in price, I will stick with my latest love:






Having a new California wine love does NOT mean that I won't be stopping at all the great wineries in Baja. La neblina at LA Cetto is pretty darn good, too.

astrobaja - 9-15-2010 at 12:20 PM

Jesse what do you disagree with? My take is that many of the finer wines are priced out of reach. But the JC Bravo Carinon (sp?) is a fabulous wine but still around $18 US

Skeet/Loreto - 9-15-2010 at 12:21 PM

Pomp!

I will Highly recommend Sta Thomas Chardoney. In my many travels down the road i watched them Build the Winery, then I tried this new one.

Here in Texas I can;t find it so have a friend bring it from San Diego.

As I was for 3 Summers a State of California Wing Grape Inspector, I became awuianted with Grapes and Wine. Worked at Gallo Winery, Sutter Home and several others.

Pomp; You know what I discovered??
It is all in the Taste Buds of the Drinker!!!!

By the way if you like Muscats you should order some Chocolate covered ones from Sunkist Rasins out of Selma Calif.

DENNIS - 9-15-2010 at 12:31 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Skeet/Loreto
I became awuianted



Help me out, Skeet. What does that word mean?

Skeet/Loreto - 9-15-2010 at 12:47 PM

Aquainted

Skeet/Loreto - 9-15-2010 at 12:49 PM

Dennis: What you need to understand is that when a fella gets to the age of 80 years and has used his hands to actively love all the pretty women, he develops Arthirtic conditions.

DENNIS - 9-15-2010 at 12:55 PM

Thanks, Skeet.

Dave - 9-15-2010 at 01:02 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by astrobaja
Jesse what do you disagree with? My take is that many of the finer wines are priced out of reach. But the JC Bravo Carinon (sp?) is a fabulous wine but still around $18 US


My experience has been most all California wines purchased at $18 will compare in quality with Baja wines selling at $30. The price disconnect follows up and down the curve. Generally speaking, Baja wines aren't worth the price.

DENNIS - 9-15-2010 at 01:08 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Dave
My experience has been most all California wines purchased at $18 will compare in quality with Baja wines selling at $30. The price disconnect follows up and down the curve. Generally speaking, Baja wines aren't worth the price.


That is the general, unbiased opinion I see over and over.

Personally, if a bottle of wine will alter reality and turn my world into Tortilla Flat, it's a good product. :biggrin:

JESSE - 9-15-2010 at 01:22 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Dave
Quote:
Originally posted by astrobaja
Jesse what do you disagree with? My take is that many of the finer wines are priced out of reach. But the JC Bravo Carinon (sp?) is a fabulous wine but still around $18 US


My experience has been most all California wines purchased at $18 will compare in quality with Baja wines selling at $30. The price disconnect follows up and down the curve. Generally speaking, Baja wines aren't worth the price.


I agree with that, put a side sentimental reasons, and for the same price, you can buy a much better wine from Chile, Spain, Argentina, or even Cali.

Skeet/Loreto - 9-15-2010 at 01:51 PM

Jesse; I too disagree with you. I think some $7 Gallos are excellent!

Short Story. I have a Friend who started Churches Fried Chicken Places, made several Million Dollars and in his later years has developed one of largest Wine Cellars in the Dallas Texas Area.

He invited me to escort he and a Friend on a fair size Boat out of La Paz.
We were touring around the Sea and one day he brought out a Bottle of Wine for Lunch; It costs $1200 for One Bottle.

Did not taste as good as that Sta Thomas Chardoney.

I will however agree that their are some real goo Girgio;s out there for about $20.

To each his own

Bully Hill Vineyards in New York

Gypsy Jan - 9-15-2010 at 03:01 PM

Years ago, Walter Taylor sold his vineyard to Coca Cola, if I recall correctly, and subsequently discovered that he could not start another vineyard under his name, because CC had bought that as well.

So he and his son started Bully Hill Vineyards, with the motto, "They May Have Bought My Name, But They Can't Get My Goat."

It's pretty good wine and the rants on the labels are very entertaining. In California, a case costs $40 including shipping and handling.

http://www.bullyhill.com/wines/

DianaT - 9-15-2010 at 03:16 PM

I just wish they sold something other than Padre Kino in our town.

Skeet/Loreto - 9-15-2010 at 03:33 PM

some of the best drinking wine I ever had was when I was in Rome. In every Place including Alfreado;s they brouth you Fresh Wine to Drink with your Meals. I ask Why we could not get the same Taste in America of the Wine and it was explained that in the Transportation of the Wine abopard Ship it changed Taste.
I found that was true when I would bring Wine from the States along that Rough Road to Loreto. It changes Taste!!

skeet

Good for you

Dave - 9-15-2010 at 04:18 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Skeet/Loreto
I am just one of those Nuts who try not to Purchase goods from Countries that do not treat their People Well. France included.


Then I guess you've never bought anything made in China?

And while we're on the subject:

What's your opinion on how Mexico's government treats its people?

DENNIS - 9-15-2010 at 04:21 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Dave
And while we're on the subject:

What's your opinion on how Mexico's government treats its people?


Treats them to what? I haven't heard about this largesse.

Skeet/Loreto - 9-15-2010 at 05:18 PM

Dave: I will answer your Question if you Post it under a New Topic. This topic is about Wine.

thanks Skeet

Exactly what I was thinking

Dave - 9-15-2010 at 05:31 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Skeet/Loreto
This topic is about Wine.



Until someone hijacked the thread:
Quote:
Originally posted by Skeet/Loreto
I am just one of those Nuts who try not to Purchase goods from Countries that do not treat their People Well.


Hmmm...I wonder who? :rolleyes:

DENNIS - 9-15-2010 at 05:46 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Dave
Hmmm...I wonder who? :rolleyes:


He wanders the site knowing not where he goes..as a Messiah.

Skeet/Loreto - 9-15-2010 at 05:53 PM

Dennis : I would appreciate that if you do not have to say something in the Positive manner to "Go Back to the Other part of this Board" Please

DENNIS - 9-15-2010 at 06:12 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Skeet/Loreto
Dennis : I would appreciate that if you do not have to say something in the Positive manner to "Go Back to the Other part of this Board" Please


He teaches as a Brother, Father and Mother as one. His words encompass all we need.
Be thankful.

capt. mike - 9-15-2010 at 06:35 PM

hahahaha roger you look hammered!
come lets drive some nails together! i NEED framers right now big time!!

Love the Mex Vino

lookingandbuying - 9-15-2010 at 06:42 PM

I a remally impressed with the wines they are making in Mexico. Still remember the first time in the valley and was in total awe of some of the wines we tasted that day.

Can't wait until we go back...such a fun day checking out what the local places are offering.

DENNIS - 9-15-2010 at 06:51 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by capt. mike
come lets drive some nails together!



Is that an invitation to Anthony's? Must be.

bajamigo - 9-15-2010 at 06:55 PM

The Guadalupe Valley is crawling with new, small wineries that are putting out some excellent product, like Emeve, which has recently won some important awards. But they will never be price performers as long as Méxicocontinues to levy its luxury tax on wines.

Iflyfish - 9-16-2010 at 06:35 AM

Mrsfish and I will be in Ensenada early Oct and one of our missions will be to fill the motor home wine cellar. Any recommendations of Artentine, Chilean etc. that is available there would be appreciated. Our tastes run to big reds, Syrah, Zin, Pinot Noir, Barbera, Nebliolo etc. I am not familiar with the South American wines.

What good reds are available in the Baja? Where do I find them in Ensenada?

Thanks,

Iflyfish

Wine Shop

bajaguy - 9-16-2010 at 07:04 AM

Fish.......

There is a wine shop with a pretty good selection of local mid to upper end wines at the corner of 6th (Sexta) and Moctezuma, across from a local park (Parque Revolucion).

In downtown Ensenada, take Miramar from the Costero (Lazaro Card##as) to 6th street, make a left on 6th to the park/Moctezuma, turn right on Moctezuma.....it will on your left on the corner.....a white 2 story place, looks like a house.

Look for a Vena Cava red, a Cabneret, I think, and a bottle with just an "L" on the label....from Liceaga Winery....another red.

Good luck!!!!!

[Edited on 9-16-2010 by bajaguy]

Martyman - 9-16-2010 at 08:23 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by DENNIS
Quote:
Originally posted by Skeet/Loreto
Dennis : I would appreciate that if you do not have to say something in the Positive manner to "Go Back to the Other part of this Board" Please


He teaches as a Brother, Father and Mother as one. His words encompass all we need.
Be thankful.


LOL He's like Swami Scaminonya

Pompano - 9-16-2010 at 09:09 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by DENNIS
Quote:
Originally posted by capt. mike
come lets drive some nails together!



Is that an invitation to Anthony's? Must be.


Dennis...just WHERE is this fabled Anthonys? A place in Ensenada like Anthonys of San Diego and Seattle? I must order the monkfish. :rolleyes:

Nebliolo.. a great choice from LA Cetto


.




Capt Mike...the first bottle tastes great, but never fazes me...




...but that second can make you a wee bit hazy...:rolleyes:




Meet my ..enabler.

All in fun! honest...
.
.
.

Good reds .. for me anyway:

Nebliolo..I forget the current price per bottle..about $12 - $14?

Red Truck..my favorite red now..about $9 at most retailers. Compares well with very expensive reds.

bajamigo - 9-16-2010 at 09:19 AM

Add Ensenada Wines to your list. It is located in el Sauzal, slightly n/o Ensenada. It's on the southbound side, surrounded by a fence that looks like randomly-nailed-up boards, next to el Sarmiento and Gazusa restaurants. This shop and the one BajaGuy recommends (it's called La Contra) feature fine Mexican wines.

S. American wines can be found everywhere, especially in Costco and Comercial Mexicana. Can't recommend any particular label, but you might enjoy some of the Argentinian malbecs.

Skeet/Loreto - 9-16-2010 at 09:43 AM

Martyman" I did not mean to Hijack. it is deleted.

Iflyfish - 9-17-2010 at 07:52 AM

What is your experience bringing wine into Baja with you? What sort of duty have you paid if inspected?

Thanks for the tips on places in Ensenada to find good wine and the nebliolo suggestion.

Iflyfish

jorgie - 9-17-2010 at 08:14 AM

the preservatives in imported wine and beer makes any comparison tough . Tecate in Baja excellent , Tecate in Arizona nada ....... Australian Reds are tops ,,,in Australia . Same goes for Chile and other S America products . People are not drinking fast enough , drink more , faster do away with preservatives

Martyman - 9-17-2010 at 08:28 AM

I brought a case of homemade wine-no problem-packed at the bottom of my equipaje. Gotta drink the whole case (or give it away) as it will go bad during the baja summer.

bajamigo - 9-17-2010 at 09:00 AM

They don't seem to bother with wine.