Wow, I took a fantastic trip to Valle de Guadalupe in Baja, Mexico this past weekend. I love exploring new places, and I had heard so many great things about the Valle from friends. When my hubby suggested we go there for my birthday, I was thrilled!
Our “journey” began with a 35-minute drive to the Mexican border. We quickly found the toll road and drove 45 minutes to La Mision where we met up with friends and enjoyed a beautiful lunch at Pico Cielo. The views were stunning, and it was my last opportunity to enjoy a margarita (or two) before heading to the Valle where wine is the drink of choice.
After lunch, it was an additional 45-minute drive inland to the Valle where we immediately visited Monte Xanic winery. The views were stunning, and the Chenin Blanc was nice and dry. After a glass, we checked into our boutique hotel for a rest.
That evening, we had dinner at Finco Altozano where we enjoyed beautiful, delicious seafood (oysters, mussels, and octopus) and my hubby enjoyed the roasted quail, a specialty of the region.
Throughout the weekend we visited and tasted the wines of En El Mogor and met the founder Natalia who was great friends with our hosts. We had a delightful birthday lunch next door at Deckman’s, which is an outdoor restaurant where everything is grilled right down to the tortillas. We enjoyed mussels (again), grilled vegetable salads, and yummy desserts.
Other wineries visited were Clos de Tres Cantos where the owners Joaquin and Maria gave us a personal tour of the wine cellar and the incredible architecture of the buildings. We also visited El Cielo, a fairly large winery with several organic gardens where restaurants source their greens and fruit.
I was completely impressed by some of the wonderful wines I tasted and the farm to table restaurants we visited. Everyone was friendly even though our Spanish was little to non-existent. It was an incredible food and wine adventure, and I simply can’t wait to return!
