Mexican wines and wineries

Guataque wine event, Mexico (4/4)

2009-07-18T08:46:00.001-05:00

When you put this wine event into the proper perspective, acknowledging that these dedicated, artisan and smaller producers, with limited resources and training are making a diverse mixture of drinkable wines, it’s very impressive. In deed, some of these winemakers from this event and local winemaking schools have moved up the chain and become known nationally for their artisan and boutique wines. In reality, Mexico’s wine industry is still emerging in quality and production, but it is an exciting time as the industry evolves. Due to the low production of wine, and with a growing national market for regional wine, many artisan winemakers are having success in selling their products. Handcrafted wines have the advantage of bringing to the consumer, the “bottled spirit and passion” of the individual winemakers and their intimate relationship to the vines and land. As we grow and gain experience with our craft, we offer great value for the quality, and a personal expression in the art of making small quantities of wine.

Several regional food venues were present with an abundance of gourmet delights for this event to include: Capricho’s, Casa Plasencia, Tres Misiones Cheese and Olive Oil. Cafe Tomas, Bodegas del Arte, and Hogaza pastries. The event organizers were able to artfully blend a combination of wine, cerveza, food, music, dancing and good times into a successful day in Mexico’s premium wine country. For those winemakers and wineries I didn’t mention in this article, don’t worry, I’ll be featuring several artisan operations in upcoming articles for this publication and others. Please contact me if you want further coverage of your wines and your passion for the art. Thankfully, Viña de Liceaga came through again as a graceful host for this event. Serious wine and food lovers, please note that as of July 1st, Saverios Restaurant (one of the best in the region) will be setting up their summer tent galley as Asador Campestre at Liceaga Winery in San Antonio de las Minas. They’ll be open Tuesdays through Sundays from noon until 10 p.m.

Steve Dryden is a wine, food and travel writer living in Valle de Guadalupe where he guides individual and small group wine tours. He can be reached at: sbdryden@hotmail.com or www.bajawineandtours.com

Guateque wine event, Mexico (3/4)

2009-07-17T08:13:00.000-05:00

Alvaro Alvarez and Hortensia Riesgo, brew-master and winemaker, have been focused an creating premium handcrafted beer and in Ensenada since 1992.
Zinfandel seems to be a “rising star” among the artisan winemaking movement. One reason for the presence of Zinfandel is that there was a small surplus left over this last season that made its way to the artisans and smaller producers who have to purchase grapes from growers. Pau Pijoan of Viñas Pijoan empowered one of his beautiful daughters and her friends to pour his Mare, a 100% Zinfandel which was a “stand-out” (the wine) at this event. Another notable Zinfandel poured is being produced by Agosto. This 2008 Zinfandel is a team effort by Laura Chanes, Monica Chanes, Gloria Guisa and Juan Antonio Fernandez. Quinta Liz Arraga, Laura Chanes was a fellow graduate of mine at the “world renowned” La Escuelita, the artisan winemaking school in El Porvenir, Valle de Guadalupe. She is one of many women in Mexico who are taking part in our emerging wine industry with great results and progress. Another 2007 Zinfandel from Serena, is another prime example for the potential of Zinfandel in the region.

To be continued

Guateque wine event, Mexico (2/4)

2009-07-15T09:01:00.004-05:00

Two interesting features this year was a nice presentation of regional micro-brewed beers (cerveza) and an abundance of Zinfandel wine. Labricha Cerveza Artesanal had an excellent table presentation with a fine selection of handcrafted beer, staffed with knowledgeable personnel. Their Monasterio Stout, is smooth, full-bodied, with hints of coffee and smoke flavors, that would pair-up nicely with oven-baked lamb and many mole dishes. In addition, they make a palate-pleasing light honey ale, bright golden color, clean, refreshing, with floral aromas, ending with a smooth finish with a hint of ginger. I’d love to match this brew with carne asada, or shrimp in coconut milk sauce.

To be continued ...

Guataque wine event, Mexico (1/4)

2009-07-15T08:45:00.003-05:00

This annual wine event is probably the most enthusiastic and “down to earth” wine country event held each year in Valle de Guadalupe. The focus is on emerging winemakers, beginners, artisans, home-brewers, small operations and intermediate-level producers. This year’s event was enhanced with the use of the new multi-use activity center generously provided by Viña de Liceaga in San Antonio de las Minas. The overall event planning was brilliantly orchestrated by Leonardo Lizárraga and friends. It is remarkable to note that these events continue to advance and improve vastly with each season. The food venues, tickets sales, parking, sanitation, stage, live music, dancing area, gazebos, security, and table seating made for a fun, family-oriented event. One obvious element was that you could really feel the “enthusiasm and spirit” as you approached the grounds, filled with a diverse mix of people, micro-brewed beers, regional culinary delights and newly produced wines.

To be continued...

Casa de Piedra Winery, what and where ?

2009-07-01T07:05:00.002-05:00

This project was born with the desire to produce an excellent wine for the enjoyment of the group of people whose interest and enthusiasm lay in the initiation of the winery. At Casa de Piedra, we have endeavored to make our "Estate Wine" using the grapes from the area and its diverse microclimates. Utilizing the latest technology combined with the expertise and sensibility of our winemakers, we have attained a level upon which, each bottle exclusively reflects the personality of the land.

The vineyard is located at km 93.5 in valley of San Antonio de las Minas, Baja California. The Casa de Piedra and its vineyards, is uniquely situated, lending its geometric rhythm and harmony to the vines. The building has an intimate farmhouse ambiance, but is well equipped with small capacity stainless steel tanks complete with computerized processing control, a semi-gravitational system and underground caves. Eight years have passed since our first harvest, and we have received high acclaim of our wine both nationally and internationally.

Interested in their products ? Find them here: http://www.vinoscasadepiedra.com/ing.htm

Discovering Mexican Wines

2009-07-01T07:01:00.002-05:00

I recently returned from a wonderful two-week vacation in Mexico. It was my first time there as a tourist, and I thoroughly enjoyed discovering the diversity of the country from the hustle of Mexico City to the vibrant traditions of Chiapas and the ancient cultures of the Mayas in the Yucatán. One of the most enjoyable parts of the trip was the food and drink.

From dishes traditionally associated with Mexico (burritos, fajitas, empanadas), to more regional dishes we sampled (cochinita pibil, relleno negro, poc-chuc), everything was as good as I had hoped. I also enjoyed the variety of Mexican beers, from the ubiquitous Corona to lesser-known brands such as Modelo Especial, Pacifico and Superior to name just a few. The real surprise, however, was the discovery that Mexico produces wine — and that some of it is quite good.

I should warn you that I make no pretenses to have tasted the full gamut of Mexican wines. Indeed, a Mexican friend who imports French wines into Mexico warned me that the best wines — which are usually produced in low volumes — are not available in ordinary restaurants. They are snapped up by top restaurants and collectors. That said, this review will offer the normal tourist a reasonable guide to what is found on most restaurant menus. Note that all prices are in US dollars and reflect the price I paid in the restaurant.

In all, I tasted only eight different wines: one sparkling, two whites and five reds. The rest of the time, I was drinking beer or Chilean and Argentine wines. Half the wines I tasted were from producer Pedro Domecq, part of the Pernod Ricard wines and spirits group. Though good distribution has clearly helped Pedro Domecq, the wines are in fact reliable. Domecq’s 2006 XA Blanc de Blancs made from Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay and Riesling was the “value” find of the trip. It was slightly buttery on the palate with hints of apricot and honey. The finish had just enough acidity so that it wasn’t cloying. Widely available, it only costs $18 in most restaurants, and it is often available in a half bottle (for a little less than half the price).

The reds from Pedro Domecq run the gamut. The 2003 XA Cabernet Sauvignon is like the dozens of average Cabs you see from Chile. Medium bodied, it has flavors of lush ripe red berries with soft tannins. In all, it is a flabby but very drinkable wine for only $20. Moving up the quality scale is the 2003 Chateau Domecq Cosecha Seleccionada. This wine is round and supple with flavors of wild berries. Made from a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Niebbelo, it is a better deal at $23; I only saw it twice on the wine lists however. In what I tasted from Pedro Domecq, the 2005 Reserva Real was by far the best. Made from Merlot and Petit Syrah, the wine has a burnt cherry taste with firm tannins. We definitely drank this one too young, but, at $26 a bottle, it did not hurt the pocketbook.

The other producer prevalent on wine lists is L.A. Cetto. I tasted at least two of their wines and both were disappointing. The 2005 Fumé Blanc was completely flat, with no freshness at all. At $24 this was a heavy price to pay. The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon, at $15 a bottle, was at least cheaper, but the wine was just awful. It reminded me of all the really bad wines I used to drink when I did not know any better and could not afford any better, even if I did.

The star of the trip was from producer Monte Xanic. The 2002 Merlot was a perfect expression of what Merlot can be: full of flavors of lush, overripe cherries, and smooth as silk tannins. It was perhaps a bit past its prime, but it was the wine of the trip, with a $65 price tag to show for it. It was the only wine I tasted that showcased the caliber of high-end Mexican wines.

Finally, the bottle of sparkling wine we purchased to toast the end of a successful trip fell flat. The Vino Blanco Espumoso Brut from Champbrule ($12) is a mix of Chardonnay and French Colombard. It tasted like the worst of both. My notes literally read “bland creamy white with bubbles forced through it.” Celebrate with some Chilean sparkling instead, or better yet just splurge on French champagne.

So if you are off to Mexico for vacation, my advice is to choose your local wine carefully because there are indeed good ones to be had. For higher quality wines, you will need to head to a top restaurant and pay the price, if the Monte Xanic is indicative. In the mainstream, Pedro Domecq is widely available and offers, on the whole, good value for the money. Nevertheless, if you find yourself at a simple home-style joint without good wine options, the varied local beers make perfect chasers. I look forward to exploring more Mexican wines when they are widely available on the export market or on future trips to Mexico. I know now I’ve only scratched the surface.

Source: http://www.findyourcraving.com

Mexican Wine: Adventures in Wine Tasting

2009-06-18T08:44:00.002-05:00

I had a great time staying out at Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay in Mazatlan. They put on a Wine & Cheese Tasting class on Thursday afternoon featuring Mexican wines. First up was a 2007 Casa Madero Chardonnay from Coahuila which was light and crisp with a light pear flavor. We moved on to a NV La Cetto White Zinfandel from the Guadalupe Valley in Baja which had a strawberry and cranberry flavor. Last up was a Casa Madero Merlot that was light a fruity with flavors of plums and red cherries. I can honestly say that all three of these wines produced in Mexico are very enjoyable. The Casa Madero Chardonnay was my favorite of the afternoon and is perfect for those sunny 80 degree days lounging by the pool or with dinner.

Source: woodinvillewineupdate.com

Enjoy the Wine Festival 2009 in Baja California, Mexico

2009-06-18T04:01:00.003-05:00

Want to discover the Mexican wineries in Baja California ?

Want to enjoy a good wine or a good mexican meal with appropriate wine ?

Want to have a dance or participate at a cultural event in a nice - winery - environment ?

All this is offered to you by the organisators of the Mexican Wine festival 2009 in Baja California.

More information (program) here: http://www.fiestasdelavendimia.com/programa.php

Baja's exotic wine country since the 1990's

2009-06-18T01:57:00.003-05:00

The Fiestas de las Vendimias—Wine Harvest Festival—in and around Ensenada, takes place every summer in August. Because I was writing an article about the festival during the summer of 2000, Terry and I were invited to the kick-off celebration at the Ensenada Cultural Center. We donned our party duds and headed north to sample wines from all the wineries, along with appetizers from Ensenada’s finest restaurants. The next night was the Street Fair at the Bodegas de Santo Tomás. We brought Gayle, Chelsea, Derek and Gonzo to this event with us. We were planning to meet Keith, from the Spanish language school. Trouble was, he was on Mexican time and we were on camp time. The kids got bored and as whiny as two-year-olds, so we left by 8:30—which was about five minutes before Keith arrived.

Article continues here:http://www.bajamagic.com/storyshow/WineFestival.html

Monte Xanic, “Flower which blooms after the first rain”

2009-06-10T06:59:00.000-05:00

Proudly Mexican, this brand is well positioned in the Premium market, producing wines of consistent quality.
“Xanic” name is originated from the Cora Indians, that continue to inhabit parts of Nayarit (the state where i was born, soon will talk about it) on México´s Pacific Coast and it means “Flower which blooms after the first rain”

20 years have passed since Monte Xanic started producing wines in a time where many others were closing their doors for the flood of low cost wines and modest quality. This winery took the challenge and yes they really took it to the next level!!

Article continues here: http://www.g-naya.com/2009/04/11/monte-xanic/

Paralelo, an Innovative Winery for a Contemporary México!

2009-06-09T06:42:00.001-05:00

Hugo D´Acosta, one of the star winemakers of Ensenada started Paralelo Winery thinking on the people that wanted to make it´s own wine.

It was born as a property/partnership project that allowed people to participate directly in the wine industry and experiment what it is to be part of it.

The name Paralelo is used because it´s a Parallel project to Casa de Piedra, the other winery from Hugo D´Acosta; it uses the same varietals, the same assemblage, but at the same time it´s completely different. What makes it different? The essence of the valley, each peace of land transmits to the wine it´s own characteristics: the terroir.

Continues here: http://www.g-naya.com/2009/05/22/paralelo-an-innovative-winery-for-a-contemporary-mexico/

Discover the wine region of Baja California, Mexico

2009-06-07T06:51:00.000-05:00

One region has become the leader in reviving the reputation of Mexican wines, and, perhaps tellingly, it lies just above the 30th parallel. 90% of Mexican quality wine comes from northern Baja California, centering around the city of Ensenada.

The major winegrowing subregions – the Guadalupe, Calafia, San Vincente, and Santo Tomás Valleys – all lie close to the Pacific where they can benefit from the cooling ocean breezes and mists. Hot days and cool nights is a classic winegrowing combination throughout the world, allowing grapes to develop their sugars without a corresponding drop in acidity. All the valleys feature a mix of alluvial soils and decomposed granite.

More, here: http://mexicanwines.homestead.com/REGIONBaja.html

Discover the wine region of Durango, Mexico

2009-06-06T06:44:00.000-05:00

Durango is the perfect place for a wine experience. We have multiple Wine Spectator acclaimed restaurants, over 50 licensed establishments, 600+ hotel rooms, almost 200 boutique galleries and shops, all right downtown. We truly have the perfect environment for a wine event. There is more to do in this county than any other county in Colorado.

More, here: http://www.durangowine.com/

Discover the wine region of Sonora, Mexico

2009-06-05T06:48:00.002-05:00

This region is situated in the Coahuila and Durango States. It has a desert climate with an average annual temperature of 64.4 ° F (18 °C.)

Two very distinct periods occur in this region; the first one from April to October, has an average annual temperature of over 68 ° F (20 °C ) and the second one, from November to March, has temperatures that vary between 56.48 ° F (13,6 °C) and 66.92 ° F (19,4° C). The lowest average annual temperature occurs in January and the highest in July and August.

The relative humidity varies seasonally. In spring it is 31 %, in summer 16 %, in autumn 53 % and 44 % in the winter.

Wine production, including quality wines, continues in these areas of Mexico as well, most notably in the La Laguna region, which straddles the states of Coahuila and Durango in the northeast; this is the home of the Parras Valley, the first appellation recognized by the Mexican government. Half of Mexico’s vineyards are in Sonora.

More, here: http://mexicanwines.homestead.com/REGIONLaguna.html

Discover the wine region of Zacatecas

2009-06-04T06:40:00.002-05:00

Founded in 1546, Zacatecas offers a rich historical culture combined with 21st century living.

From fascinating museums and cable-car rides of ancient mines, to villages where traditional silversmiths still live and work, the state of Zacatecas is a place where centuries of history meet modern-day elegance and commodity.

Smaller high elevation vineyards are planted at Zacatecas and go as high as 7,000 feet on the plateau of Aguascalientes...

Continues here: http://www.chiff.com/wine/n-america/zacatecas.htm

Wine tour in Querétaro, México

2009-05-27T08:52:00.002-05:00

On the weekend I made a little trip to visit the wineries in the state of Quéretaro, México. I would recommend to stay in Tequisquiapan, a beautiful village about 2 hours north of México City. The village has a very picturesque spanish style plaza with many good restaurants that serve the local wines. There are also some very nice wine and cheese bars, where one can sample local cheeses paired with the local wines. There are some very nice hotels right on or very near to the plaza in all different price ranges.

From Tequisquiapan it is about 15 min drive to "La Redonda" wineries

http://www.laredonda.com.mx/

The winery has free tours once a day during the week and every hour on the weekend. You can sample their wines for free and the tour is very interesting, although it is a very small winery. They plant Cabernet, Merlot, Malbec, Pinot Noir, a local grape called Salvador and just started to plant Tempranillo, of which they don´t offer any wines yet. Their 2004 Malbec-Cabernet called Orlandi is pretty good; they also make some very good sparkling wine, which they produce using the "Methode champenoise". The winery is owned by an Italian family, they offer italian food at the weekends.

From La Redonda it is a 5 minutes drive to Freixenet of Mexico (Mexican subidiary of the spanish company):

http://www.freixenetmexico.com.mx/Freixenet/Index.html

Freixenet also offers a free tour, where one can visit the deepest cavas in the Americas (25 mts). They also produce the sparkling wines (cavas) following the methode champenoise. I am not very convinced of their table wines, but they make excellent sparkling wines.
Freixenet also has their own winebar in Tequisquiapan, where they offer Freixenet wines from all over the world. Very interesting, so you can sample wine make from the same grapes from the same company from different continents.

The village Tequisquiapan also has a wine & cheese festival end of May, I will definetely visit again for this occasion:

http://www.tequisquiapan.com.mx/docs.php?id=115

A toast to Mexico's undiscovered wine country

2009-05-27T08:48:00.002-05:00

By CHRISTINE DELSOL

One of the earliest casualties of the drug-related violence in northern Baja California has been its wine valleys, particularly the Guadalupe Valley, northeast of Ensenada, which has single-handedly put the country on the wine connoisseur's map and earned the moniker, "Mexico's Napa Valley." Monte Xanic, Santo Tomas and L.A. Cetto are among its best-known brands.

Mind you, we have heard from legions of oenophiles who have made tasting trips in the past year without encountering any of the types of problems currently grabbing headlines, but with Baja Norte officially outside the comfort zone, this might be just the time to sample Mexico's undiscovered wine regions.

Article continues here: http://www.seattlepi.com/travel/405209_mexico0416.html

Riedel Wine Bar - Polanco writes...

2009-05-18T06:59:00.001-05:00

One of the most impressive new wine bars is the Riedel Wine Bar on Campos Eliseos in the heart of the Hotel Zone in Mexico City just across the street from the Nikko Hotel in the prestigious Polanco neighborhood.
The bar features over 250 labels of wine from 14 different countries, of which more than 90 wines are served by the glass. The top suppliers are Mexico and Spain with more than 30 different labels each, followed by Australia, Chile, Argentina and France.
The ambiance is always taken care of with the proper lighting and music and of course excellent service. Riedel Wine Bar is always a great choice whether it's just tapas and a glass of wine or a full course meal.

Source: opentable.com

California Winemaking Began in Mexico Centuries Ago.

2009-05-18T06:51:00.003-05:00

By David Mandich

Angel Salinas is the sommelier at Don Emiliano restaurant in San Jose del Cabo (near Cabo San Lucas, Baja California) and a member of the International Slow Food Association - a movement that began in Italy 16 years ago to counteract the fast food industry. Members promote regional cuisine, local farmers and fine dining with family and friends in an unhurried environment. Senor Salinas' passion for Mexican wine, 85% of which is grown in the Guadalupe Valley of Northern Baja California, fits perfectly with Slow Food's philosophy of supporting regional growers.

Mexican wine, according to Angel, is produced in boutique quantities mainly for domestic consumption, but is exported in small quantities to 38 countries due to demand. With only 6,200 acres under cultivation in all of Mexico, he suggests Gallo Wine's production in California alone may exceed that of his own native country.

Small volumes, often in the range of 500 cases, are more the rule than the exception in Mexico. Bottles of finer vintages are often numbered like limited-edition art. Salinas shows me a bottle of 2004 Roganto Cabernet, which cost $75US when it was first introduced and now commands over $500 at auction. Many stockbrokers would be hard-pressed to match that kind of return. Roganto wines are known for their elegance and sophisticated single varietal red wines. Aged in oak barrels in the seaport town of Ensenada, these delicious wines pair well with seafood, local lobster and game.

Article continues here: http://hubpages.com/hub/mexicanwine

The Essential Valle de Guadalupe food and wine!

2009-05-18T01:55:00.004-05:00

It was another divine couple of days in Baja last weekend.The food, the wine, the people, the scenery.It has now been about 8 years or so since I've been traveling regularly to Tijuana, Ensesenada, and the Valle de Guadalupe.Occasionally Rosarito, and two trips driving all the way to Loreto.Much has changed.

What is the Valle de Guadalupe and Mexican wine?This is the question that drives the restauranteurs, vintners,chilango wine enthusiasts, journalists,quesotraficos, tourists, and adventurers alike.In Polanco, it's about the boutique and cult Mexican wines.Do you have any Tres Mujeres?Casa de Piedra? For the American media it's Laja, Monte Xanic,Adobe Guadalupe, and Cetto.I mean, every article sends you to the same five places!

Currently, I count 34 wineries in the Valle de Guadalupe(Francisco Zarco,El Porvenir),San Antonio de Las Minas(sub apellation), Ensenada, Santo Tomas, and Ojos Negros.There are an equal number in development in the Valle according to my friend Steve Dryden(Baja Times wine writer/D.F. columnists), and there are people making table wines from their own backyards being sold in restaurants and shops.Yet, where does everyone go?Cetto, Domecq,Santo Tomas,Monte Xanic, Chateau Camou, or Adobe Guadalupe.Where do they eat?Laja.Where do they stay?Adobe Guadalupe or La Villa del Valle.The report, so-so wines, great meal at Laja, wine was expensive, brought my own, I can find better wines cheaper.....

There are good wines at these places, but not necessarily on the tastings.Cetto wines are usually the cheapest in a restaurant and a good value wine with dinner, but they do have better wines not on their tastings in a higher price range.Dona Lupe makes organic wines, but her real talent is in the amazing food products she makes not her wines, which are OK.The Camou tasting has a nice blanc de blancs and chardonnay, but the reds are their cheaper offerings, again their best wines aren't part of the tasting.The more expensive Camou and Xanic wines are not on the tastings and are more of a reflection of their potential.There are wineries just like this in California, and anywhere for that matter.

The next level of traveler makes it in to Muelle Tres and Manzanilla, where I believe the spirit of wine country in Mexico is well represented by Benito Molina.Local ingredients, Mexican ingredients, and select Baja wines.Most of what Benito has you won't find on your drive to Cetto or Adobe Guadalupe.Many are by appointment only, and some are illusive, like Hugo D'Acosta.Liceaga is easy to find and has tour groups coming through, even the obnoxious kind like were there on the Friday after Thanksgiving.The Liceaga tasting has a nice Merlot, chenin blanc, and the grappas are outstanding.

I went to see if one of my favorite wineries, Vinisterra, was open early Friday, after a couple of tacos de birria.Perfect Mexican breakfast to cushion the consumption of Baja wines.They were closed again, but after talking with a groudskeeper, a French women who had been talking on her cell phone said that she would give us a tour.Vinisterra just built a beautiful tasting room and production facility, I first went years ago when you went up to the house for a tasting.Agnes, a perky and apt wine enthusiast from Bordeaux led us through the Vinisterra wine making process, including a taste of wine from the maceration tanks, still very sweet and viscous.Agnes was a blast and made an amazing guide for a friend of the family that had just taken the tour with the owner earlier that hour! I hope Agnes stays on.But more importantly, this French wine drinker as she called herself, put my convictions into her European perspective.When I asked what she thought Mexican wine was, she named tempranillo,nebbiolo, and chenin blanc, among others.Agnes described the mineral and saline qualities of the soil, and how more professionalism has brought forth wine makers that can balance this challenge of terroir. Vinisterra has a fine tempranillo, nothing like a Spanish Rioja at all,different, Mexican.A Mexican wine, with mineralty, but balanced.Interesting, unexpected, and delicioso. Baja makes different wines, the best Mexican wines, but you have to drink the right ones to know them.Casa de Piedra, J.C. Bravo, Tres Valles, Vinas Piojan, Mogor Badan, the Cabernet at Valmar, Vinos Californios Roganto, that sauvignon blanc made by Hugo at Benito's restaurants.

Worried about spending too much? Well, when you consider the cost of eating at Manzanilla, Muelle Tres, and the phenomenal La Guerrerense, where you can have ceviches of fresh abulone, cod, pismo clam, huarache oysters, and that #&%#ing urchin for next to nothing, what's the problem?How about this, go to Bevmo, get your affordable wine and take it to the best Mexican seafood place in the US......forgot, we don't have places like Muelle Tres or La Guerrerense.OK, the Water Grill, for the same quality, $120 a head, $25 corkage, your stellar wine selection $18, a total of $163. At the stand $30 for the Baja wine, and $10-$15 for a seafood feast that will change your life.

The globalization of wine is a bore, this has always been the wisdom shared by my European friends who are used to their unique local food and drink being distinctive.While Napa makes world class wines, at times I'm perplexed by the lack of diversity.I guess Robert Parker has many wineries doing a bit of a dance.Of course, there are others ignoring RP and making different wines in every market.But, is this what you expect?The same paradigm applied to all experiences?If so, then I suggest getting off the tourist track and at least exploring the best of the Valle de Guadalupe, and no some of these things aren't on the map.That's part of the fun.

Finally, when I see Hugo D'Acosta sitting having lunch meetings at Manzanilla, restaurant owners taking classes at La Escuelita, chilangos in Polanco chasing down cult wines from Baja, and brand new cuisines evolving in front of my very eyes, I just have to ask.Do you think that these people in the Valle aren't possibly getting together and asking eachother questions like," I have a lot of spicy foods, what have you got for me Hugo?" "Wow, this Sonoran beef needs something different, what do you think Camilo?"Only the French and Italians are capable of such complicated thoughts?Baja Med cuisine(La Querencia and and Villa Saverios), Valle de Guadalupe cuisine(Laja), and exploding gastronomic movement from Tijuana to Ensenada are only possible because of the synergy between the food and wine that is happening right now.Laja is part of that, so are the Baja quails I had at a street cart near Francisco Zarco.Martin San Ramon, the brilliant chef from the Cordon Bleu who runs Rincon San Ramon moved back to Baja to be a part of this revolution.The food scene in northern Baja eclipses anything we have here in California wine country in quantity, diversity, and quality.

Baja wine and food is an essential part of Mexico.The wines are made for the chefs in cooperation with the winemakers, and if you're not partaking and exploring then you're missing the experience.For me, it's Manzanillo and Muelle Tres and Benito's select wines, it's Casa de Piedra and J.C. Bravo, roadside Baja quail with a glass of local wine from the abarrotes that sells ostrich, the real del castillo degustacion at Saverios with a nice chenin blanc, the farmer's market pizza maker at Rancho Badan,quesatacos at La Ermita, the sashimi de callos at La Querencia, the pizza with chorizo de abulon at Baja Med Pizza co., fish tacos at my favorite stand, La Guererrense, Ivette Vaillard's Mas Mezcla, and tacos de birria on a Sunday morning.

Just some of the magical and sensual delights of northern Baja and the Valle de Guadalupe.

Source: Street Gourmet LA

Mexican wine regions: Zacatecas

2009-05-01T14:32:00.000-05:00

Zacatecas: Lying south of the “global wine zone” (between latitudes of 30 and 50 degrees), Zacatecas’ vineyards grow in the Ojo Caliente and Valle de la Macarena regions. At altitudes of about 6,500 feet, crisp winters and fresh summer temperatures, combined with moisture-retentive clay soils, are optimal for sugar-rich grapes that mature quickly.

A range of European red varieties (cabernet sauvignon, merlot) grow here, as well as those more common to California, such as zinfandel, and American hybrids (Black Spanish, Lenoir). Some white grapes also thrive here.

Zacatecas, one of Mexico’s beautiful silver cities, stands on its own as a historic destination, but it also boasts several small wineries. The best-known local brand is Casa Cachola. The winery is outside the city in Valle de las Arisnas at the intersection of highways 45 and 49. If you plan to visit, make arrangements in advance.

More news about Mexican wine regions here: http://mexicanwines.homestead.com/REGIONS.html

Fiestas de la Vendimia 2009 (3/3)

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Monday August 10th at 6:00 p.m is the second Monte Xanic “Sunset Concert.” They present works from classical repertoire, accompanied by fine cheeses and house wine in a beautiful valley setting!

Friday August 14th offers Jazz at EL Mogor winery at 5:30 p.m with house wines and Mediterranean empanadas.

Friday August 14th at 6:00 p.m. 18:00 Hrs Vinícola Viña de Liceaga, San Antonio de las Minas presents a variety of local cheeses, accompanied by house wine and music.

Friday August 14th at 6:00 p.m in Manzanilla Restaurant near the Ensenada harbor will present gourmet tapas matched with premium Viñas Pijoan wines. Popular event!

Saturday August 15th at 9:00 am is another “Winemakers Visits” held in most Valle de Guadalupe wineries where winemakers host visitors at their wineries to taste and describe their wines.

Saturday August 15th at 4:00 p.m is an event, NOT TO BE MISSED! You won’t need a bank loan to enjoy this wonderful Russian family. “Russian Memories” at Bibayoff Winery with Russian music, dancers, food and wines. All people are welcome!

Saturday August 15th at 6:00 p.m is the Malagon Family Celebration held near the village of Francisco Zarco. Horse show, live jazz and mariachi with authentic Mexican/American cuisine and large samples of all of their premium wines.

Saturday August 15th at 1 p.m come party “To the Sounds of Vinisterra” held at the winery featuring gourmet food, music along with some of Mexico’s best wine.

Sunday August 16th at 6:30 p.m is “Velada Italiana en Villa Montefiori” with Italian soirée at Villa Montefiori, opera music in the vineyard, italian cuisine (traditional italian food) wine tasting, music.

Tuesday March 18th at 6:00 p.m is my favorite event of the season! “la Noche de Cofradia en Ensenada” held this year on Tuesday August 18th at 6 p.m. This is the most reasonably priced event and exposes your palate to about 30 wineries and local culinary establishments. Held at the seaport terminal this competition matches wines with regional gourmet cuisine.

Thursday August 20th is the only FREE event held at the Park in Ejido El Porvenir at 4:00 p.m with music, local food and wine.

Friday August 21st at 7:00 p.m is a presentation of artisan wine, olive oils, and other handcrafted products. Held at the “La Escuelita” wine school in El Provenir.

Friday August 21st at 7:30 p.m is “Mexican Delights at Valmar Winery” in Ensenada. 19:30 Hrs. Deluxe dinner with a great variety of delicious Mexican dishes, paired with the best house wines, along with music and dancing.

Saturday August 22nd at 9:00 am is the final “Winemaker Visits” where winemakers host visitors at their wineries to taste and describe their wines.

Saturday August 22nd beginning at 2:00 p.m is the FAMOUS Santo Tomas Winery Street Fair with numerous artistic expressions, games, music, food and house wines.
19:00 Hrs.

Sunday August 23rd is the Grand Finale at 12:00 Noon with 18th annual “Paella Cooking Contest.” Held at Rancho San Gabriel, San Antonio de las Minas, Ensenada. A very popular (always sold out well in advance) country contest for cooking rice paella style, sampling of paella and wines, dancing and music.

Have fun, be safe, don’t drink and drive, hydrate during the events! It’s probably a great idea to get on the waiting list ASAP, as tickets sales are usually chaotic, confusing and presented at the last possible second before the events.

Steve Dryden is a wine, food and travel writer living in Valle de Guadalupe where he guides private and small group wine tours. He also books lodging and can be reached at: sbdryden@hotmail.com or www.bajawineandtours.com

Fiestas de la Vendimia 2009 (2/3)

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Here’s the main schedule of events for August 2009.

Friday August 7th at 7 p.m. is the 19th “Wine Experience” held at Centro Cívico y Cultural Riviera del Pacifico. This fun “opening event” is a presentation of the wines, labels and vintages of Baja California, music, food tasting and art.

Saturday August 8th at 9 am is XVII Concurso International “Ensenada Tierra del Vino wine competition held in the Hotel Coral y Marina. Professional judges select the best wines in the competition.

Saturday August 8th at 8:30 Hrs is a “Golf Tournament” at Real del Mar Golf Club sponsored by Hotel Calafia y Vinos Bibayoff. Happy golfers play “Four man scramble" with wine tasting at each hole, exquisite food sampling, followed by an award dinner with prizes, raffle & auction.

Saturday August 8th at 9:00 am is an informative and educational venue called “Winemakers Visits” held ay most regional wineries where winemakers host visitors at their wineries to taste and describe their wines. There are three of these events.

Saturday August 8th at 6:30 p.m is a “Gala Dinner” held at Vinícola Adobe Guadalupe featuring a formal dinner and wine auction for the rich and famous.

Sunday August 9th with an early start of 7:00 am, lucky guests can ride on horseback for 20K with wine tastings at wineries in the Guadalupe Valley and lunch.

Sunday August 9th at 1:30 p.m is the annual “Country Lunch” at Viña de Liceaga Winery, San Antonio de las Minas featuring baked lamb, house wine and live music.

Sunday August 9th at 6:00 p.m is the popular Monte Xanic “Sunset Concert.” They present works from classical repertoire, accompanied by fine cheeses and house wine in a beautiful valley setting!

Mexican wine regions: Queretaro

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Querétaro: One of Mexico’s most prosperous wine growing areas, Querétaro’s vineyards occupy altitudes around 6,500 feet. Sparkling wines make up the bulk of its output, but sauvignon blanc, St. Emilion, cabernet sauvignon and pinot noir are also produced here.

This is the home of the Spanish vintner Freixenet’s Mexican operation. Freixenet is best-known for its dry sparkling wines (vinos espumosos, or “frothy wines”) in satiny black bottles, produced by the champenoise method of fermentation discovered by Dom Perignon in the 17th century. The winery also produces still wines, mostly red blends. Cavas Freixenet de Mexico, north of Tequisquiapan, offers guided tours, classes, concerts and festivals throughout the year.

The other major wine estate is Compania Vinicola Los Eucaliptos in Ezequiel Montes. Vinos Hidalgo La Madrilena is a local operation with wineries in the San Juan del Río region.

More information about this (an other) Mexican wineregion(s) here: http://mexicanwines.homestead.com/REGIONCenter.html

Fiestas de la Vendimia 2009 (1/3)

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by Steve Dryden

Every summer the wineries of Baja California Norte pool their talents and wares to host an amazing series of wine, food, music and cultural events throughout the region. Most of these festivities take place in Ensenada or Valle de Guadalupe with a few events in other areas. You may need to get a bank loan to attend some of the events, but if you’re selective and practical you can enjoy some great wine, food and entertainment. The Vendimia 2009 takes place from August 7th and continues to August 23rd. Summer temperatures during these events usually hovers around 100 degrees F, so pace yourselves and hydrate with fresh water as needed. Due to the abundance of wine, it is suggested that you book lodging (ASAP) and spend the night near the location of the event. Hotel Plaza Fatima, Hacienda Guadalupe and Rancho Malagon B&B still have some rooms for the event season, if you act now.

Two of my favorites events include “Noche de Cofradia en Ensenada” held this year on Tuesday August 18th at 6 p.m. This is the most reasonably priced event and exposes your palate to about 30 wineries and local culinary establishments. Held at the seaport terminal this competition matches wines with regional gourmet cuisine. Another great day can be enjoyed Saturday August 15 at 6 p.m during the annual “Malagon Family Celebration” held near Francisco Zarco on a 500 acre ranch, vineyard, winery, B&B. This family orientated event includes a horse show, live jazz and mariachi, an abundance of authentic Mexican/American food, and large samples of all their wines. In addition, their B&B is available for lodging during many of the other events, if you book early!

To be continued ...