Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to explore Mexican wine country for the first time—and what a delightful surprise it turned out to be!
When a friend invited me to join him on his first Carnival cruise, I eagerly scanned the itinerary for interesting excursions. One in particular immediately stood out: a wine-tasting tour in the Guadalupe Valley, Mexico’s premier wine region. As someone who’s always excited to explore new wine areas, I didn’t hesitate—“Sign me up!” Not only was this a chance to visit an emerging wine destination, but it was also a rare opportunity to share my passion for wine with a travel companion.
Setting Sail for Baja’s Wine Country
On the day of the excursion, we docked at the port of Ensenada and by 10 AM, we were on our way. A scenic hour-long bus ride through Baja California’s rugged terrain brought us into the heart of the Guadalupe Valley, often dubbed the “Little Napa of Mexico.” With over 100 wineries, boutique hotels, and top-tier restaurants, the valley has blossomed in recent years into a must-visit for wine lovers. While the region’s winemaking roots stretch back more than a century, it’s only in the last decade that it’s earned widespread acclaim.
What sets the Guadalupe Valley apart is its variety. The region’s climate and soil support an impressive range of grapes—from Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc to Petite Verdot and Tempranillo—giving each winery its own distinctive flavor profile and character.
First Stop: L.A. Cetto
Our first tasting destination was L.A. Cetto, one of Baja’s most iconic wineries and the second oldest in the state. Founded by Italian immigrant Francesco Antonio Cetto in 1928, the winery has remained family-run for generations. The tour took us through the vineyards, production areas, and wine cellars—a personal favorite of mine. There’s something magical about walking among rows of oak barrels filled with delicious wine. Plus, the cool air was a welcome break from the heat of the day!
Inside the tasting room, we sampled a generous flight of wines. I’ve always been fond of Tempranillo for its subtle spice, but the standout for me was their crisp, refreshing Sauvignon Blanc. We also enjoyed some of the winery’s olive oil, served with fresh bread — the perfect wine-tasting snack.
Before we left, we browsed their gift shop, filled with balsamic vinegar, olives, and wine-themed souvenirs. The highlight? A comically oversized wine bottle taller than I am. It wasn’t filled (sadly), but it made for a great photo op.
La Casa de Doña Lupe
Our second stop was just a short five-minute drive away: La Casa de Doña Lupe, a charming, family-owned winery known for its small-batch production and laid-back vibe. Their wines include Grenache Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon, and the tasting was paired with locally made bread, cheeses, jams, and jellies. If you wanted something heartier, tacos and pizza were also available.
This was a more casual wine tour. We were given wine flights and encouraged to either explore the shop or sit on the patio to enjoy the live music. My friend and I decided to hang out inside and savor our four-wine flight: Grenache Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Corazón de Ruby (a smooth red blend). We also sampled a Tequila Cream liqueur, which reminded me of Bailey’s but with a Mexican twist—perfect for sipping after dinner or adding to coffee.
Looking Ahead
After about four hours of wine, food, and sunshine, it was time to head back to the ship. This short excursion offered only a glimpse of what Guadalupe Valley has to offer, and it left me eager to return. This region deserves a spot on any wine lover’s travel list.
Want to see more pictures of this adventure? Follow me on Instagram: Cabernet Companion