The most Michelin-stars per capita in the Americas. More than 200 wineries. Valle de Guadalupe, and Baja California for that matter, has risen to popularity and has become a beacon for Mexican gastronomy. From world famous fine dining restaurants to local wineries, Baja California is bursting with a diversity of flavors and cuisines. With so many great options, it’s almost impossible to narrow down places to visit, especially if it’s your first visit. So, here is a curated list of the best places to explore all the flavors that Baja has to offer
Uncorking the Magic of Baja Wines
With its Mediterranean-style climate and access to the sea, the climate in Baja California has just the right conditions for incredible Mexican wine. Here are our favorite wineries located in Baja California:
Las Nubes Bodega y Viñedo
Inspired by beautiful panoramic views of Ensenda, Las Nubes winery started in 2008 with the intention of creating the best wine in Baja California. We recommend trying Nimbus, with its strong wood aroma and equally strong body.
Concierto Enológico
A small winery located right in “la Ruta del Vino”, Concierto Enológico offers an immersive and revolutionary new way to experience wine. You can tour the beautiful vineyards, create your own wine, and book a tasting where Concierto’s wines are deliciously paired with local artisanal bread and cheeses. We recommend you try Forza which is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignion, Merlot, Barbera, and has notes of berries, leather and tobacco.
Encino de Piedra
Born from a strong legacy in “El Rancho Tecate”, ever since the first vine was planted in 1893, Encino de Piedra’s wines are filled with culture and heritage. The taste of love for Mexican wine can be found in the award winning Nebbiolo Joven, which its fresh slight woody aroma gives way to a secondary notes of hibiscus flower.
Llano Colorado
Located in Valle de San Vicente, born from the deep red soil are Llano Colorado's wines. The artistry of wine is part of their identity as they are located on the old wine route. If you want to explore what Llano Colorado has to offer, you should try Bixo, a pet-nat that is irresistible as it is unique. Its slightly golden color gives way to white florals, citric, and slightly herbal notes which are exemplified by the natural bubbles.
Monte Xanic
Last but not least, Monte Xanic, Valle's most known winery. Monte Xanic. Their goal has always been to put Mexican wines on the map. Our favorite bottle is the iconic Gran Ricardo, a premium wine that embodies the essence of Monte Xanic which elegantly pairs deep fruity notes of black cherry and blackberry with herbal notes of rosemary and clove with a touch of oak and vanilla. The beautifully complex blend is bold and timeless. If you hurry you can still get one of the last bottles from the 2018 vintage at Milpan in Fontainbleau, France.
Discover Baja, one unforgettable plate at a time
The region is known for farm-to-table dining, innovative chefs blending Mexican traditions with Mediterranean and global influences, and rustic open-air restaurants. Fresh local seafood, organic produce, and artisanal cheeses define its food scene, making it a top destination for food enthusiasts.
Conchas de Piedra
Conchas de Piedra, at the helm of Chef Drew Godman has been awarded with one Michelin star and a green Michelin star reflecting their outstanding commitment towards sustainability. Its dishes reflect popular regional seafood dishes like ceviche and aguachile. This restaurant is for those looking to enjoy the fresh seafood that baja has to offer. They have also partnered with Hugo D’acosta, a renowned Mexican énologist, to support his winery Casa de Piedra.
Lunario
Also with one Michelin star and a green Michelin star, Lunario offers a variety of creative dishes made by Chef Sheyla Alvarado. Dishes such as Dúo de Ostrias and Sopa de Maiz azul highlight the contemporary view towards Mexican gastronomy.
El Mesón
Dining is not only about enjoying the food and artistry , its'a also a way to connect with others. Mesón takes delicious food and amazing experiences and combines it with something even more special — the people you love. Describing themselves as "conceptual dining in a communal table", this is a great option if you want to host an event in Valle de Guadalupe.
Ixhua
Ixhua in Nahuatl means to start at root, and this Ihxua’s food brings a Mexican authenticity to their plates. Ixhua is a catering company that creates experiences centered around mexican gastronomy. They love to innovate and improve their dishes and experiment with different flavors and wine pairings.
El trailero
El Trailero are legendary tacos based in Ensenada that have been around since 1992, making them one of the first taquerias there. Delicious and high-quality tacos that are sure to satisfy your cravings for tacos.
