Mexican Wine Regions

Aguascalientes

Aguascalientes is one of Mexico’s smallest states, but it is also the fifth largest wine producing region in the country. With an average elevation of over 6.500 feet above sea level, and a high over over 10,000 feet above sea level, this is one of Central Mexico’s high elevation wine regions. The climate is semi-arid, with the exception of the northeast and southeast areas which tend to be a little cooler and wetter than the rest of Aguascalientes. It is known for its hot water springs and is one of the few parts of Mexico that consistently must worry about hail in the vineyards. The most popular varietals grown are Nebbiolo and Malbec, with Sauvignon Blanc emerging as well.

Baja california

Baja California is home to 90% of all Mexican wine production. It borders the United States along Southern California and is home to Mexico’s Napa Valley - The Valle de Guadalupe. This is the northernmost wine growing region in Mexico, just north of the 30th parallel. With a Mediterranean climate and granite-rich soils, the Valle de Guadalupe is ideally suited to make world class wines. Varietals grown here include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Tempranillo, Nebbiolo, Sangiovese, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc. The Valle de Guadalupe is truly a melting pot of ideas and blends.

guanajuato

Guanajuato is located in Central Mexico and is an exciting up and coming wine region. With an average elevation of over 6,500 feet above sea level, the region sees very warm days and cool nights - ideal for grape growing. Early August rains lead to an early harvest, just as the grapes are hitting their full stride. Varietals grown here include Malbec, Tempranillo, Merlot, Syrah, and Muscat.

QUERéTARO

Querétaro is the southernmost wine producing region in the Northern Hemisphere. Located southeast of Guanajuato, Querétaro is just as arid and its wineries enjoy an even higher average elevation of 7,000 feet above sea level. This high elevation allows grapes to thrive in the hot climate. This region is especially known for its sparkling wines that are made in a style similar to Cava. Varietals grown include Xarel-lo, Parellada, Macabeo, Malbec, Tempranillo, Nebbiolo, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay.

Zacatecas

Zacatecas is located northwest of Guanajuato and is home to some of the highest elevation wineries in Mexico. Zacatecas has a cool, dry climate; in fact, there are no major rivers running through the entire state. Its mineral-rich soils allow for great winemaking at 7,500 feet above sea level. The primary varietal grown in Zacatecas is Malbec, but one can also find Nebbiolo, Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Viognier