When you think of wine country, New Mexico might not be the first place that comes to mind. But did you know that the Land of Enchantment is home to some of the oldest wine-producing regions in the United States? With its high-altitude vineyards, unique terroir, and passionate winemakers, New Mexico offers a wine experience that’s as diverse and enchanting as its landscapes. From Albuquerque’s urban wineries to the rolling vineyards of the Rio Grande Valley, this guide will take you on a tour of the best wineries and vineyards in New Mexico. Grab a glass and let’s explore!

Albuquerque Wineries: Urban Wine with a Southwestern Flair

1. Casa Rondena Winery – A Taste of Tuscany in Albuquerque

Nestled in the North Valley, Casa Rondena Winery is a hidden gem that transports you to the vineyards of Tuscany. Known for its award-winning wines, including the 1629 Series and Anniversary Red, this winery offers a serene escape just minutes from downtown Albuquerque. The stunning architecture and lush gardens make it the perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon.

• Address: 733 Chavez Rd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87107

2. Gruet Winery Tasting Room – Sparkling Wine Excellence

Gruet Winery is New Mexico’s most famous winery, renowned for its world-class sparkling wines. Founded by a French winemaking family, Gruet produces méthode champenoise sparkling wines that rival those from Champagne. Visit their Albuquerque tasting room to sample their Brut, Blanc de Noirs, and other exquisite offerings.

• Address: 8400 Pan American Fwy NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113

3. Vara Winery & Distillery – A Blend of Old World and New

Vara Winery & Distillery combines the traditions of Spanish winemaking with the innovation of New Mexico’s wine scene. Their Vara Silverhead and Domenica wines are crowd-pleasers, and their tasting room offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. Don’t miss their unique wine and spirit pairings for a truly memorable experience.

• Address: 315 Alameda Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113

Beyond Albuquerque: New Mexico’s Wine Country Gems

1. St. Clair Winery & Bistro – A Southern New Mexico Staple

Located in Deming, St. Clair Winery is one of the largest and most respected wineries in New Mexico. Their Blue Teal and Hatch Green Chile Wine are must-tries, and their bistro offers delicious food pairings. With multiple locations across the state, including Albuquerque, St. Clair is a great introduction to New Mexico wines.

• Address (Deming Tasting Room): 1325 De Baca Rd SE, Deming, NM 88030

2. La Chiripada Winery – A Family-Owned Treasure

In the charming village of Dixon, La Chiripada Winery has been producing handcrafted wines for over 40 years. Known for their Rio Grande Red and Vidal Blanc, this family-owned winery offers a cozy tasting room and stunning views of the surrounding vineyards.

• Address: 505 NM-75, Dixon, NM 87527

3. Black Mesa Winery – Bold Flavors in Velarde

Located in the heart of the Rio Grande Valley, Black Mesa Winery is known for its bold, flavorful wines. Their Zia Red and Antelope Red are local favorites, and their tasting room offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The winery’s scenic location makes it a great stop on a wine tour of northern New Mexico.

• Address: 1502 NM-68, Velarde, NM 87582

4. Vivac Winery – High-Altitude Excellence

Situated in the picturesque village of Dixon, Vivac Winery is one of the highest-altitude wineries in the United States. Their Cabernet Sauvignon and Refosco are standout wines, and their commitment to sustainable practices makes them a favorite among eco-conscious wine lovers.

• Address: 2075 NM-68, Dixon, NM 87527

5. Noisy Water Winery – Fun and Flavor in Ruidoso

Noisy Water Winery in Ruidoso is known for its fun, approachable wines and lively tasting room. Their Boldfaced Red and Green Chile Wine are popular choices, and the winery often hosts live music and events. It’s a great destination for a casual and enjoyable wine-tasting experience.

• Address: 2347 Sudderth Dr, Ruidoso, NM 88345

Tips for Your New Mexico Wine Tour

• Plan Ahead: Some wineries require reservations for tastings, especially on weekends, so check their websites or call ahead.
• Try Something New: New Mexico’s wineries often feature unique varietals and blends, so don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.
• Designate a Driver: If you’re planning to visit multiple wineries, consider hiring a driver or using a transportation service like Desert Breeze Transportation to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Let Desert Breeze Transportation Take You There

Exploring New Mexico’s wineries and vineyards is even better when you don’t have to worry about driving. Let Desert Breeze Transportation handle the logistics so you can focus on savoring the flavors of the Land of Enchantment. Whether you’re visiting Albuquerque’s urban wineries or venturing to the scenic vineyards of the Rio Grande Valley, our reliable and comfortable services ensure a stress-free journey.

Book your ride with Desert Breeze Transportation today and raise a glass to New Mexico’s thriving wine scene!