Best 11 Wineries in New Mexico: A Guide to the Top Vineyards in the State
New Mexico is known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. But did you know that it’s also home to some of the best wineries in the country? From the high desert of Northern New Mexico to the rolling hills of the southern part of the state, New Mexico’s wineries offer a unique and unforgettable experience for wine lovers.
With over 50 wineries scattered throughout the state, there’s something for everyone in New Mexico’s wine country. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or just looking for a fun day out with friends, you’re sure to find a winery that suits your tastes. Some of the most popular wineries in the state include Casa Rondena, Gruet Winery, and Vivác Winery, each offering a distinct selection of wines and a unique atmosphere. With so many options to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start – but that’s where this guide comes in.
The Unique Wine Regions of New Mexico
New Mexico is home to a diverse range of unique wine regions, each with its own distinct character and flavor. From the high desert mesas to the lush river valleys, New Mexico’s wine regions are as varied as they are beautiful.
One of the most well-known wine regions in New Mexico is the Rio Grande Valley, which stretches along the Rio Grande River from Albuquerque to the Mexican border. This region is known for its warm days, cool nights, and fertile soils, which produce some of the state’s most flavorful and aromatic wines.
Another popular wine region in New Mexico is Velarde, which is located in the north-central part of the state. This region is known for its high-altitude vineyards, which produce grapes with a unique balance of acidity and sweetness. Velarde is also home to some of the state’s most innovative winemakers, who are constantly experimenting with new varietals and winemaking techniques.
Black Mesa is another up-and-coming wine region in New Mexico, located in the northwest part of the state. This region is known for its volcanic soils, which produce grapes with a distinctive mineral character. Black Mesa is also home to some of the state’s most exciting young winemakers, who are pushing the boundaries of what is possible in New Mexico’s wine industry.
Other notable wine regions in New Mexico include Deming, Santa Fe, Las Cruces, Mimbres Valley, Rio Embudo Valley, Mesilla Valley, and San Juan River. Each of these regions has its own unique terroir, grape varietals, and winemaking traditions, making New Mexico a truly diverse and exciting wine destination.
Visitors to New Mexico can explore the state’s wine regions by following the New Mexico Wine Trail, which features more than 50 wineries and tasting rooms throughout the state. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just looking for a unique and memorable vacation destination, New Mexico’s wine regions are sure to impress.
Exploring the Vineyards
New Mexico is home to several vineyards that produce some of the best wines in the country. Visitors can explore the vineyards and learn about the process of wine-making while enjoying the scenic beauty of the high-altitude region.
The vineyards in New Mexico are known for using locally grown grapes, which are known for their unique taste. The high-altitude region provides the perfect environment for growing grapevines. The dry climate and warm days are perfect for ripening the grapes, while the cool nights help retain their acidity.
Visitors can take a tour of the vineyards and learn about the different varieties of grapes grown in New Mexico. Some of the popular varieties include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Riesling. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who provide visitors with information about the history of the vineyards, the wine-making process, and the different types of wines produced in the region.
The vineyards in New Mexico are also known for their scenic beauty. Visitors can take a stroll through the vineyards and enjoy the view of the grapevines stretching out as far as the eye can see. Many vineyards also have tasting rooms where visitors can sample some of the best wines produced in the region.
Notable Wineries in New Mexico
Black Mesa Winery
Black Mesa Winery is located in Velarde, New Mexico, and is known for its award-winning wines. The winery has a tasting room where visitors can sample some of their most popular wines, including their Cabernet Franc, Syrah, and Malbec. Black Mesa Winery is also known for its beautiful vineyards and stunning views of the mountains.
Website: http://www.blackmesawinery.com/
Address: 1502 NM-68, Velarde, NM 87582, United States
Casa Rondeña Winery
Casa Rondeña Winery is located in Los Ranchos de Albuquerque, New Mexico. The winery is housed in a beautiful Tuscan-style building and is known for its award-winning wines, including Cabernet Franc, Meritage, and Viognier. Casa Rondeña Winery also offers tours of its vineyards and winery, as well as tastings and events.
Website: http://www.casarondena.com/
Address: 733 Chavez Rd, Los Ranchos De Albuquerque, NM 87107, United States
St. Clair Winery
St. Clair Winery is located in Deming, New Mexico, and is known for its award-winning wines, including its D.H. Lescombes line. The winery has a tasting room where visitors can sample some of their most popular wines, including their Chardonnay, Merlot, and Zinfandel. St. Clair Winery also offers tours of its vineyards and winery, as well as tastings and events.
Website: https://lescombeswinery.com/
Address: 7075 NM-549, Deming, NM 88030, United States
Gruet Winery
Gruet Winery is located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and is known for its award-winning sparkling wines. The winery was founded by the Gruet family, who originally hails from Champagne, France. Gruet Winery offers tastings of its sparkling wines, as well as tours of its vineyards and winery.
Website: http://www.gruetwinery.com/
Address: 8400 Pan American Fwy NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113, United States
D.H. Lescombes Winery
D.H. Lescombes Winery is located in Deming, New Mexico, and is known for its award-winning wines, including its St. Clair line. The winery has a tasting room where visitors can sample some of their most popular wines, including their Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Merlot. D.H. Lescombes Winery also offers tours of its vineyards and winery, as well as tastings and events.
Website: https://lescombeswinery.com/
Address: 7075 NM-549, Deming, NM 88030, United States
La Viña Winery
La Viña Winery is located in La Union, New Mexico, and is known for its award-winning wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Merlot. The winery has a tasting room where visitors can sample some of their most popular wines, as well as a beautiful outdoor patio area where visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Website: http://www.lavinawinery.com/
Address: 4201 NM-28, Anthony, NM 88021, United States
Luna Rossa Winery
Luna Rossa Winery is located in Deming, New Mexico, and is known for its award-winning wines, including its Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay. The winery has a tasting room where visitors can sample some of their most popular wines, as well as a beautiful outdoor patio area where visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding vineyards.
Website: http://www.lunarossawinery.com/
Address: 3710 W Pine St, Deming, NM 88030, United States
Wines of the San Juan
Wines of the San Juan is located in Blanco, New Mexico, and is known for its award-winning wines, including its Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. The winery has a tasting room where visitors can sample some of their most popular wines, as well as a beautiful outdoor patio area where visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding vineyards.
Website: https://www.winesofthesanjuan.com/
Address: 233 NM-511, Blanco, NM 87412, United States
La Chiripada Winery
La Chiripada Winery is located in Dixon, New Mexico, and is known for its award-winning wines, including Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Chardonnay. The winery has a tasting room where visitors can sample some of their most popular wines, as well as a beautiful outdoor patio area where visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Website: https://lachiripada.com/
Address: Highway 75 Rd 1119 #8, Dixon, NM 87527, United States
Arena Blanca Winery
Arena Blanca Winery is located in Las Cruces, New Mexico, and is known for its award-winning wines, including its Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. The winery has a tasting room where visitors can sample some of their most popular wines, as well as a beautiful outdoor patio area where visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding vineyards.
Website: http://www.pistachiotreeranch.com/
Address: 7320 US-54, Alamogordo, NM 88310, United States
Corrales Winery
Corrales Winery is located in Corrales, New Mexico, and is known for its award-winning wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Merlot. The winery has a tasting room where visitors can sample some of their most popular wines, as well as a beautiful outdoor patio area where visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding vineyards.
Website: http://corraleswinery.com/
Address: 6275 Corrales Rd, Corrales, NM 87048, United States
The Wine Tasting Experience
New Mexico is home to some of the best wineries in the United States. The wine-tasting experience in New Mexico is exceptional, with a wide range of wine varieties that cater to every taste. Wine tasting is a popular activity in New Mexico, and many wineries offer wine tastings to visitors.
Visitors can expect to taste a range of wines, from sweet to dry, and learn about the winemaking process. The tasting rooms are often staffed by knowledgeable sommeliers who can guide visitors through the tasting experience and answer any questions they may have.
There are many ways to experience wine tasting in New Mexico. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the wineries or join a guided wine tour. Some wineries offer food pairings to complement the wine, making for a more immersive experience.
The wine-tasting experience in New Mexico is not just about the wine. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful scenery and architecture of the wineries. Many wineries are located in picturesque settings, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Wine Varieties and Awards
New Mexico has a diverse range of wine varieties, with many wineries producing award-winning wines. Some of the most popular wine varieties in New Mexico include Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Viognier, and Riesling. These grapes are grown in different regions of the state, each with its own unique climate and soil conditions.
One of the most popular wine varieties in New Mexico is the Primavera wine, which is made from a blend of different grapes. This wine is known for its fruity and floral aroma, with a smooth and refreshing taste. It pairs well with a variety of dishes, including seafood, poultry, and pasta.
New Mexico wineries have also won numerous awards and competitions. Some of the most prestigious awards include the New Mexico State Fair Wine Competition, the Southwest Wine Competition, and the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. These competitions recognize the best wines from around the country, and New Mexico wineries have consistently performed well in these competitions.
Many New Mexico wineries also participate in international competitions, such as the Decanter World Wine Awards and the International Wine Challenge. These competitions attract wineries from all over the world, and winning a medal at one of these events is a significant achievement.
Food and Wine Pairing
When it comes to wine tasting, pairing the right wine with the right food can enhance the overall experience. In New Mexico, there are many wineries that offer food and wine pairing events that allow visitors to sample the local wines and enjoy them with local cuisine.
One of the best wineries in Albuquerque for food and wine pairing is Casa Rondeña Winery. They offer a variety of food and wine pairing events throughout the year, including a four-course dinner paired with their award-winning wines. The menu changes seasonally and features locally sourced ingredients.
Another great winery for food and wine pairing in New Mexico is Gruet Winery. They have a tasting room in Albuquerque that offers cheese and wine pairings, as well as a tapas menu featuring small plates that pair perfectly with their wines.
For those looking for a unique food and wine pairing experience, the Black Mesa Winery in Velarde offers a chocolate and wine pairing event. They pair their wines with artisan chocolates made by a local chocolatier, creating a delicious and decadent-tasting experience.
Wine Events and Festivals
New Mexico is home to a number of wine events and festivals throughout the year, which provide an excellent opportunity to taste some of the best wines from the state. These events are also a great way to learn more about the winemaking process and meet the people behind some of the best wineries in New Mexico.
One of the most popular wine events in New Mexico is the annual Harvest Wine Festival, which takes place every Labor Day weekend in Southern New Mexico. This festival features wine tastings from over 20 New Mexico wineries, as well as live music, food vendors, and arts and crafts.
Another popular wine festival in New Mexico is the Albuquerque Wine Festival, which takes place every Memorial Day weekend at Balloon Fiesta Park. This festival features over 20 New Mexico wineries, as well as live music, food vendors, and arts and crafts.
In addition to these large festivals, there are also a number of smaller wine events and tastings throughout the year. For example, the Taos Winter Wine Festival takes place every January and features wine tastings, gourmet food, and live music.
Many of New Mexico’s wineries also host their own events and tastings throughout the year. For example, the Gruet Winery in Albuquerque offers daily tastings and tours, as well as special events like wine and chocolate pairings.
Planning Your Visit
If you’re planning a trip to New Mexico, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to visit some of the state’s best wineries. Before you go, it’s important to do some research and plan your visit accordingly. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your winery experience:
Tour and Travel
Consider taking a tour to explore several wineries in one day. Many tour companies offer packages that include transportation, tastings, and even lunch. This can be a great way to see more of the region and get a taste of what each winery has to offer.
Map and Reservations
Before you set out, be sure to map out your route and make any necessary reservations. Some wineries require reservations for tastings or tours, so it’s best to plan ahead to avoid disappointment. You can also use a map to plan your route and make sure you don’t miss any of the best wineries along the way.
Accommodation
If you’re planning to spend a few days in the area, consider staying at a hotel or bed and breakfast near the wineries. This will allow you to relax and enjoy your tastings without worrying about driving back to your accommodations. Many hotels also offer packages that include winery tours and tastings.
Rafting and Petroglyphs
While you’re in the area, take some time to explore the region’s other attractions. New Mexico is known for its beautiful landscapes, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as rafting and hiking. You can also visit the petroglyphs at Petroglyph National Monument to see ancient rock carvings and learn about the region’s history.
Live Music
Many wineries in New Mexico also offer live music and other events throughout the year. Check the wineries’ websites or social media pages to see what’s coming up during your visit. This can be a great way to experience the local culture and enjoy some entertainment while you sip your wine.
The Atmosphere at New Mexico Wineries
New Mexico is home to many wineries that offer unique and inviting atmospheres for visitors. The ambiance at New Mexico wineries is often characterized by the natural beauty of the state’s high-elevation landscapes, including the presence of cottonwood trees and other native flora.
Many of the wineries in New Mexico are family-run businesses, which adds to the welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can often expect a warm and friendly staff that is knowledgeable about the wines being produced and the history of the winery.
One of the highlights of visiting a winery in New Mexico is the opportunity to taste the region’s red wines. The climate in southern New Mexico is particularly well-suited for growing grapes that are used to produce rich and flavorful red wines.
The atmosphere at New Mexico wineries is often enhanced by the presence of outdoor seating areas that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the natural beauty of the state.
In summary, the atmosphere at New Mexico wineries is inviting, warm, and friendly. Visitors can expect knowledgeable staff, delicious red wines, and stunning views of the state’s high elevation landscapes.