Exploring the Renowned Wine Regions of Mexico
Mexico, a diverse and vibrant country, is also rapidly gaining recognition for its wine production. While many might not immediately think of Mexico as a wine lover's paradise, it certainly has some regions that are worth exploring for both quality and charm. This article delves into the most famous wine regions in Mexico, specifically focusing on Baja California and other key areas.
The Emergence of Valle de Guadalupe
Valle de Guadalupe, located in Baja Norte, has emerged as a pivotal wine region in Mexico, drawing significant attention. This region, situated slightly inland from the Pacific coast, is known for its rolling hills and picturesque countryside. The people in the wine industry here are notably friendly and welcoming, making it a delightful destination for wine enthusiasts. Despite its relative newcomer status, Valle de Guadalupe is now a must-visit for anyone interested in Mexican wines.
Baja California's Dominance in Wine Production
Baja California is the heart and soul of Mexican wine production. The north-eastern part of the state is home to 85% of all wines produced in Mexico. Notably, the entire Valle de Guadalupe and the Ojos Negros area are thriving wine regions, located approximately 30 minutes from Ensenada. Other notable regions in Baja California include Querétaro, central Mexico, and Parras in the north.
Wineries in Other Regions
Beyond Baja California, there are other notable wine regions in Mexico that deserve a mention. These include Querétaro, central Mexico; Parras, in the north; as well as the states of Coahuila, Guanajuato, Aguascalientes, and Zacatecas. Each of these regions contributes to the rich tapestry of Mexican wine production. For instance, Parras, a historical center for wine-making, has a storied past dating back to the 17th century.
Recognition and Awards
The quality of Mexican wines has been recognized globally, with numerous accolades from prestigious wine competitions:
Vinaiies Internationales: Don Luis Cetto Terra 2004 L.A. Cetto, L.A.Cetto Boutique Sangiovese 2004 L.A. Cetto, L.A. Cetto Nebbiolo Reserva Privada 2003 L.A. Cetto, received Medalla de Plata awards.
Bacchus: Don Luis Viognier 2007 L.A. Cetto, received Medalla de Oro. Casa Madero Chardonnay 2007 Casa Madero received Medalla de Oro at Chardonnay du Monde 2015.
Vinitaly: L.A. Cetto Nebbiolo Reserva Privada 2003 L.A. Cetto and L.A.Cetto Boutique Sangiovese 2004 L.A. Cetto received Medalla de Bronce and Mención Honorífica, respectively.
Concurso de vinos de Thessaloniki: Casa Madero Shiraz 2006 Casa Madero and Casa Madero Semillón 2007 Casa Madero received Medalla de Plata.
International Wine Challenge: Casa Madero Chardonnay 2007 Casa Madero and Casa Madero Semillón 2007 Casa Madero received Medalla de Bronce and Mención Honorífica, respectively.
Challenge International du Vin: Monte Xanic Chardonnay 2005 Monte Xanic, Monte Xanic Chenin-Colombard 2006 Monte Xanic, and Monte Xanic Sauvignon Blanc 2006 Monte Xanic received Medalla de Bronce.
Concurso Mundial de Vinos de Bruselas: Casa Madero Semillón 2007 Casa Madero, L.A. Cetto Petite Syrah 2006 L.A. Cetto, Casa Madero Chenin Blanc 2007 Casa Madero, Chateau Camou Gran Vino Tinto 2004 Chateau Camou, Chateau Camou Gran Vino Tinto Merlot 2004, Chateau Domecq Cosecha Seleccionada 2005, Monte Xanic Cabernet Sauvignon-Merlot 2005, Monte Xanic Chardonnay 2005, and Santo Tomás único Cabernet-Merlot Gran Reserva 2004 received Medalla de Oro and Medalla de Plata.
Pacific Rim Wine Competition: L.A. Cetto Nebbiolo Reserva Privada 2003 L.A. Cetto and Monte Xanic Chardonnay 2005 Monte Xanic received Medalla de Plata.
Los Angeles International Wine Competition: Via de Liceaga Merlot Gran Reserva Via de Liceaga received Medalla de Plata, while Via Kristel Sauvignon Blanc 2006 Monte Xanic, Monte Xanic Chardonnay 2005 Monte Xanic, and Monte Xanic Merlot 2004 Monte Xanic received Medalla de Bronce.
Selections Mondiales des Vins: Casa Madero Chenin Blanc 2007 Casa Madero and Casa Madero Semillón 2007 Casa Madero received Medalla de Oro and Medalla de Plata, respectively. Ojos Negros Syrah 2006 San Rafael received Medalla de Plata.
Mexican wines continue to make a name for themselves on the global stage, driven by the quality and passion of its producers. Whether you're visiting the beautiful Valle de Guadalupe or exploring other notable regions, there's a lot to discover in the world of Mexican wine.