Wine

Sipping the Spirit of Baja
 Accidents, Mezcal, Valle de Guadalupe, Wine

When Baja’s Wine Met Mezcal and Magic Happened

Last Saturday, October 18, 2024, Bodegas Entrevez became the heart of Baja’s boldest flavor experiment — Wine & Mezcal Fest 2025. What started as a refined tasting under the theme Productos de Nuestra Tierra evolved into a vibrant celebration of craft, culture, and community.

The Calm Before the Smoke

The event began elegantly. Valle Golf poured reds that danced on the palate, while Maglén impressed with structure and balance. Vinos ATP shared a smooth Cabernet Sauvignon–Malbec 2021 that tasted like velvet. Meanwhile, Pie Franco offered earthy depth that reminded everyone why the Valle matters.

Castillo Ferrer and XOLO brought youthful energy, and Casa Luna’s whites shone with citrus and sunshine. Agua Hechicera charmed guests with floral hints and soft minerality. Andana’s team told their story with enthusiasm. “You can stay, drink, and get married without leaving,” smiled Emiliano. It sounded like the perfect business model for love.

More importantly, many of these wineries are family-led. Viñas de Toranzo showed up together — parents, siblings, and cousins pouring side by side. Por Siempre Valle melted hearts with bottles named after their children. It’s hard to compete with that kind of legacy.

Enter the Rebels

Then the mood shifted — in a good way. The mezcaleros arrived from Oaxaca and Puebla, bringing smoke, laughter, and unmistakable pride.

Don Maclovio, Dueño de Nada, Inspiraty, El Rey de Matatlán, Don Mosqueda, and Aroma Ancestral filled the air with roasted agave and citrus. Each pour told its own story. Some offered Espadín and Tobalá, others introduced Madre Cuishe and Coyote. One even served mezcal infused with cannabis. “No THC,” the producer grinned. “Just flavor.” Everyone believed him — mostly.

Of Worms and the Brave

Next came the traditional pairings: orange slices, sal de gusano, and roasted seeds. Soon after, the brave took things further with toasted chapulines and chicatanas. But nothing topped the gusano vivo — the live agave worm.

“It’s only for priests and governors,” joked a mezcalero. That night, Ensenada was full of both. One taster declared, “It’s creamy, explodes in your mouth like… mezcal.” And with that, the crowd roared.

A Toast to Family and Effort

Between the laughter and smoky finish, the message was clear: these are families who live their craft. They grow agave, harvest grapes, and distill patience into every bottle. “To make good mezcal, you need time, water, and love,” said one producer. “But mostly love.”

The Government of Puebla deserves recognition for supporting this gathering and bringing southern producers north. Their participation turned this tasting into a true national celebration.

And, of course, applause goes to Emprendedores del Valle de Guadalupe (EDVG). Their vision and hard work keep each Viñada alive and thriving. Thanks to them, these events blend professionalism with warmth — and a healthy dose of Baja soul.

The Perfect Ending

As the sun dipped behind Casa Entrevez, glasses shimmered like tiny lanterns. Friends lingered, exchanging smiles and phone numbers. A guest swirling her final sip said it best:

“Every bottle has a story — and tonight, we drank them all.”

Wine met mezcal, families met families, and Baja reminded everyone that the best stories always come in liquid form.

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 Articles, Events, Wine

Day of the Dead Ensenada Brings Wine and Catrinas Alive

Every November, Ensenada trades plastic pumpkins for marigolds and good wine. The town doesn’t do gloomy. It paints its face, raises a glass, and celebrates life with style. The Day of the Dead in Baja isn’t ancient tradition, but it’s quickly becoming one—thanks to the crew at Provino Baja California.

This year marks the fourth edition of the Velada Cultural del Día de Muertos at Bodega Santo Tomás, a venue that always feels half winery, half movie set. What started as a cultural experiment in 2022 has turned into the grand finale of Provino’s calendar. And honestly, who wouldn’t want to end the year with a toast to both ancestors and vineyards?

The Afternoon of Offerings

The day begins with Tarde de Ofrendas, a free event at Plaza Santo Tomás from 2 to 7 p.m. The plaza bursts with color—papel picado sways in the breeze, children chase each other with churros, and someone’s abuela insists you try her tamales.

For grown-ups, 120 pesos buys a tasting card with three pours of Baja wine. That’s not indulgence; that’s cultural participation. “We wanted to mark the end of the grape harvest and pay tribute to our origins,” said Héctor Corona, Provino’s treasurer.

This edition also celebrates 25 years of Provino and 35 years of the Vendimia festivals. More milestones mean more toasts, and no one in Ensenada is complaining.

Two spirits, one celebration—where wine meets Wixárika art under a sky of papel picado.



When Night Falls, the Catrinas Arrive

As daylight fades, the Noche de Catrinas begins inside the historic cellars. The setting glows with candles, laughter, and the faint clink of wine glasses. Tickets cost 1,200 pesos and include a commemorative glass, unlimited tastings, and access to over 100 wine labels from 48 Baja wineries. Think of it as trick-or-treating for adults—no cavities included.

Food lovers are in for a treat too. Twelve restaurants, including Comal, Terranoble, MIHLE, and Malva, will serve up comfort classics like tamales en mole negro, tortas de chilaquil, and the traditional pan de muerto. Soft, buttery, and sugar-dusted, it tastes like nostalgia with a side of powdered sugar.

A Guest with Spirit

This year’s guest state is Nayarit, bringing its culture, art, and rhythm to the mix. The highlight is a breathtaking altar that fuses Baja’s wine heritage with Wixárika (Huichol) artistry. Each bead and stitch tells a story—of stars, spirits, and the cosmos. It’s not decoration; it’s devotion in color.

Music, Art, and Magic in Motion

Music fills every corner. Mariachi Tlaquepaque, Melissa Carrasco’s trio, and Son del Puerto set the tone, blending tradition with joy. The Danzares de Nayarit troupe adds a dynamic touch with their performance, “Nayarit, el México por descubrir.” It’s a show full of movement, folklore, and heart.

Meanwhile, local women artisans from Ensenada’s cartonería workshop will display their handmade Catrinas. The star of the show? A monarch butterfly–inspired figure unveiled at the press preview. Each piece is available for purchase, supporting the artists and their craft—proof that beauty can also be community work.

Fewer Guests, More Charm

Last year, the event packed 600 attendees. This time, organizers capped it at 500 lucky souls to make the experience more personal—and to improve everyone’s selfie angles. Tickets are available at provino.mx, Hotel Coral y Marina, Cava Santo Tomás, and Provino’s office.

“Every year, more people show up painted,” said Juan Carlos Ochoa, Provino’s General Manager. “It’s what gives the night its magic.”

So, bring your face paint, your grandmother’s earrings, and your favorite wine buddy. The Velada isn’t about mourning. It’s about celebrating life—Baja-style. Bright, bold, and slightly buzzed.

A Huichol jaguar, a skull-labeled wine, and a wooden barrel—Provino Baja brings color, culture, and Cabernet to Ensenada’s Day of the Dead celebration.
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Sip & Crunch
 Articles, Tijuana, Wine

Wine Without Borders 2025 Brings Baja Energy to Tijuana

Tijuana’s biggest wine party is back. On Saturday, October 11th, 2025, the 4th Festival Wine Without Borders takes over the Campestre Golf Club at 3 pm. This is where Baja wine meets Paso Robles, where food meets music, and where nobody asks grapes for their passport.

Baja shows up strong

More than 40 Baja California wineries will pour over 100 labels, proving our local valleys can hold their own against anyone. Add 30 restaurants serving everything from seafood tostadas to mini burgers, and you’ve got enough food to keep even the “I don’t drink wine” friend happy.

And yes, there’s live music, because swirling your glass looks much better with a rhythm.

Paso Robles crosses the border

This year’s guest region is Paso Robles, California. Expect bold reds and smooth blends. Think of it as a friendly sibling rivalry — but with better glassware.

Organizers explained: “The main goal of the event is to continue promoting the culture of wine to the public on both sides of the border, while also serving as a significant promotional platform for enotourism among national visitors and those from Southern California.”

Smiles Served
#At Baja Terra, food comes with extra love and a grin.

Why this festival is one of a personal favorite

For me, this isn’t just another wine event. It’s one of the best. Why? Because the kitchens aren’t hidden in the back. They’re demonstrative kitchens, where chefs cook in front of you. The food is made with love, and you can tell by the smile of the people serving it. Just ask the team from Baja Terra — last year they made you feel like family.

Pro tip: sign up for the maridaje sessions. You’ll get wine and food pairings with top-quality glasses, turning a sip into a guided trip across flavor country.

The fine print

Tickets are $1,500 pesos. That includes a commemorative glass, tastings, and food samples while supplies last. Attendance is limited, so don’t wait. And sorry — no kids, no pets. This playground is for adults only.

So whether you’re a sommelier who loves to lecture, a weekend warrior with a wine app, or just someone who thinks “oak notes” means drinking outside, this is your festival.

🎟 Tickets: shorturl.at/bJXQj

🍇 Wine Without Borders 2025 — because great wine ignores geography.

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Paellas2025
 Articles, Ensenada, Wine

35 Years of Paella, Wine, and Music Create Baja Energy

Ensenada sure knows how to throw a party. The annual Paella Contest at Viña de Liceaga once again proved it, celebrating its 35th anniversary with food, wine, music, and just the right amount of chaos.

A Crowd Ready for Fun

The vibe was unmistakable. Families, couples, groups of friends, and a few brave loners all strolled in ready to eat, drink, and gossip about whose paella had too much saffron. Meanwhile, others simply claimed the best shade spot and let the feast come to them.

Cooking paella over leña might look romantic in photos. However, the reality is sweaty, smoky, and sometimes downright dangerous. One chef swore the smoke gave his rice “extra flavor.” Maybe. Yet I’m pretty sure it just gave me watery eyes.

When Fire Meets Footwear

At one point, while interviewing a paellero, a rogue ember leapt from the fire and landed on my boot. I brushed it off like nothing happened. Later, when I got home, I realized the sole had melted into modern art. In the end, that’s how you know it was a memorable fiesta.

Sipping Through the Vineyards

Wine, of course, was the co-star of the day. Rows of vinícolas lined up, pouring glass after glass, each more tempting than the last. As a result, guests happily bounced between tastings, comparing notes—or just nodding politely when someone mentioned “balanced acidity.”

A personal highlight came with Cava Dragón, making its debut. It quickly became the wine you brag about tasting before it got famous. The winemakers seemed thrilled too. Because they shared rows with fellow producers, they swapped vineyard stories like old buddies.

A Lesson with a Toast

Over at the Liceaga booth, things got even better. We filmed a tasting session that included a flawless explanation in English. It wasn’t just informative—it felt like a master class with a refill in hand. Honestly, it could have been a Netflix special.

Meanwhile, music filled the air. With two stages, guests switched between upbeat jams and softer tunes. Consequently, the crowd never lost energy, even as they balanced paella plates while grooving to a guitar riff.

Winners Take the Spotlight

As always, the Liceaga family deserves a big gracias for opening their vineyard. Without them, hundreds of happy, slightly tipsy guests wouldn’t have such a playground.

And now, the moment everyone waited for—the winners of 2025:

🥘 Quality Category

🥇 1st Place: Flor y Compañía

🥈 2nd Place: Los Ponchos

🥉 3rd Place: Los Moreno

4th: Los Abarca

5th: Constructora Makro

🥘 Presentation Category

🥇 1st Place: Xatos Paella

🥈 2nd Place: Vivencias

🥉 3rd Place: Cheo Paellas

4th: Constructora Makro

5th: Los Rústicos

Thanks to every team who battled the flames, stirred endlessly, and nervously watched the judges chew in silence. Because of their efforts, we all ate like kings.

Until Next Year

For us at the Gazette, the cherry on top was running into so many readers. We loved the selfies, the laughs, and the chance to sneak bites from your plates.

By sunset, the verdict was clear. The Paella Contest isn’t just food and wine—it’s tradition. It’s that Baja magic where strangers become amigos, and everyone leaves with a full belly and a happy heart.

Some even leave with melted boots.

See you next year for round 36. Bring sunscreen, stretchy pants, and maybe steel-toe shoes.

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Unforgettable Flavors Await at Bajas Paella Party
 Ensenada, Events, Wine

Baja’s Paella Contest Celebrates 35 Years With Wine and Music

This isn’t just another cook-off. The Dr. Ramón García Ocejo Paella Contest is the grand finale of Ensenada’s 25-day Fiestas de la Vendimia—and this year marks the 35th anniversary. On Sunday, August 17, 2025, Viña de Liceaga will once again welcome wine lovers, foodies, and anyone who appreciates a proper campestre party under 120-year-old oak trees (plus one majestic 500-year-old roble that’s basically a celebrity).

A Tradition Worth Savoring

Since the late 1980s, this event has honored the memory of Dr. Ramón García Ocejo, who championed Ensenada’s wine and culinary culture. Today, more than 90 paella teams will light their wood fires (gas is strictly forbidden) and serve their creations to the crowd. Meanwhile, 80 Baja wineries will pour more than 160 wine labels—a perfect match for a plate of smoky, saffron-infused goodness. Two live music stages will keep the energy high all afternoon.

Seafood Royalty in a Pan

#Lobster tails, shrimp, and scallops—this paella team isn’t here to play. A true showstopper at the 2025 Paella Contest

The Competition & Prizes

The judging is handled by the Asociación Gastronómica y de Paelleros de Baja California (Spanish acronym: AGAPE – The “Asociación Gastronómica y de Paelleros de Baja California”). Paellas are coded for anonymous tasting and scored on color, appearance, flavor, and texture.

Two categories take the spotlight:

  • Quality: flavor, texture, and presentation.
  • Visual Presentation: beauty and order of the cooking station.

Winners receive trophies, wine, paella pans, aprons, commemorative merch, and consumption vouchers worth around $14,000 MXN from sponsors like Afirme and La Canasta. And yes—tour packages are raffled among all attendees to close the day with a bang.

By the way, if you spot me near a good glass of Sauvignon Blanc, please come say hi. I’ll probably be there.

Family-Friendly (With a Few Rules)

Kids under 12 get in free, but no pets are allowed. The setting is pure countryside charm, with activities for children and plenty of shaded spots for adults to sip and chat.

Baja’s Biggest Paella Party Returns
#Mark your calendar—August 17 at Viña de Liceaga. Over 90 teams, 160 wines, live music, and zero excuses to miss it.

Your Insider’s Guide to Enjoying the Paella Contest

Get There Early

Gates open at 12 PM, but parking and prime shady spots go fast. If you arrive late, you risk long lines and missing the first tastings.

Parking & Transportation

On-site parking is limited and fills up quickly. Therefore, consider ride-sharing with friends or using local transportation services. Many guests arrange drop-offs to avoid the parking scramble.

Dress for the Occasion

Comfortable shoes are a must—remember, you’ll be walking on dirt paths. A hat and sunglasses will help you handle the Baja summer sun, and a light jacket can be handy for the evening breeze. Additionally, some people treat this event like a Valle de Guadalupe-style fashion show—think wide-brimmed hats, cowboy boots, and crisp white linen.

Cash or Card?

Vendors may accept both, yet cash tends to be faster. Moreover, don’t forget your ticket includes all wine and paella tastings—no surprise charges for the essentials.

Plan Your Tastings

With 90+ paella teams and 160+ wines, you won’t try everything—but you can come close. Therefore, pace yourself, and don’t ignore the lesser-known wineries; they often have the hidden gems.

Stay for the Raffle

The prize drawings happen toward the end of the event. Consequently, many people miss out because they leave early. Stick around—you might just win that vacation.

Quick Facts

  • Date: Sunday, August 17, 2025
  • Time: 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM
  • Place: Viña de Liceaga, Ensenada, Baja California, MX
  • Price: $1,450 MXN (kids under 12 free)
  • No pets allowed
  • Dress code: Comfortable, summer-friendly, or go full Valle chic

Thirty-five years, thousands of paellas, and countless wine pours later, the Paella Contest remains Ensenada’s tastiest tradition. Therefore, mark your calendar, gather your crew, and get ready for a day of wine, wood smoke, and friendly competition. Just remember—show up early, stay hydrated, and save room for seconds.

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La Verbena 2025 Gets the Green Light
 Articles, Events, Mexicali, Wine

La Verbena Brings Bold Flavors and Big Energy to Ensenada

Ensenada is about to pop the cork on one of its most beloved harvest season traditions. La Verbena de Santo Tomás returns this Saturday, August 16, and it’s ready to prove that wine, art, and food can still throw a better party than Netflix.

This is the 33rd edition of the event, set in the heart of downtown at the Plaza Santo Tomás. Organized by the Fundación Elías Pando and the Centro Cultural Santo Tomás, it’s part of the Fiestas de la Vendimia—aka Ensenada’s annual excuse to celebrate wine like it’s an Olympic sport.

Why “La Verbena”?

The name comes from an old Spanish tradition where towns gathered at night for music, dancing, food, and drink. It also happens to be the name of a plant (Verbena officinalis) once used in folk celebrations. In other words, “verbena” is basically code for “let’s party, but classy.”

A Local Icon

Yes, it’s emblematic. La Verbena isn’t just another Vendimia event—it’s a love letter to Ensenada’s cultural and wine roots. It also puts the spotlight on Bodegas de Santo Tomás, the oldest winery in Baja California, founded in 1888. This year’s edition brings back the intimate, community vibe with a 150-pesos cover that includes tastings, a commemorative glass, and enough reasons to call a taxi.

Wine First, Beer… Maybe Later

Traditionally, it’s all about the wine—especially when you’re standing in the shadow of one of Mexico’s wine pioneers. This year, beer will also be available. We’re not saying you shouldn’t enjoy it, but if you’re here for hops, you might be missing the point. The focus is still on wine in all its forms: experimental blends, food pairings, and guided tastings.

What’s On the Menu?

Expect live music from electronic beats to Latin rhythms, performance art, grape stomping, and wine workshops. The Plaza’s restaurants will serve up local flavors, while pop-up kitchens and tasting bars keep your glass and plate full. Look for the “Cata y Coto” sessions at Bar Escala and bites from chefs working right in front of you.

Behind the Scenes at La Verbena
#Loic Barbara, the mastermind behind La Verbena’s cultural mix, promises a celebration with wine, flavor, and more dance moves than you expect.

Culture Meets Celebration

Art installations, creative markets, and kids’ activities make this a family-friendly affair. That said, don’t be surprised if you spend most of your time hopping between wine stands like a well-dressed scavenger hunter.

La Verbena runs from 1:00 PM to 1:00 AM, which means you have 12 solid hours to experience one of Ensenada’s most charming traditions. It’s not just a party—it’s a taste of the city’s history in every sip.

Bottom line: If you’ve never been, you’re overdue. And if you have, you already know this is the event where Ensenada shows off its true flavor—one pour at a time.

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 Events, Food, Philanthropy, Wine

Paella, Wine, and a Good Cause? We’re In

Mark your calendar for Saturday, September 20, 2025—because Ensenada’s most delicious fundraiser is back.

Paella de Verano is setting up camp once again at CETYS Universidad, and it’s not just about rice and seafood. This annual get-together mixes wine, local beer, music, and one massive pan of generosity.

For the price of 3,000 pesos (about $166 USD), you get:

  • A steaming plate of fresh-cooked paella
  • A glass (or three) of Baja’s finest regional wine
  • Local craft beer
  • Live entertainment, including a special performance by the CETYS student orchestra (yes, they’re that good)
  • That warm fuzzy feeling from doing something good

And yes, your ticket includes everything. No add-ons, no upcharges—just vibes and value.

#image_title

So, What’s It For?

Besides giving your taste buds a vacation, Paella de Verano raises money for CETYS’s scholarship fund. That matters—because 8 out of 10 students at CETYS rely on some kind of financial aid. Your ticket helps keep dreams alive, degrees on track, and young people in school instead of in debt.

Foodie Approved

Local restaurants are showing up and throwing down. This year, culinary support comes from Ensenada favorites like Punta Morro, Evoke, La Cevichería, and La Ensenada—all committed to education and flavor in equal measure.

It’s not just a fundraiser. It’s a flavor-raiser.

Event Snapshot:

  • Where: CETYS Universidad, Ensenada campus
  • When: Saturday, September 20, 2025
  • Tickets: 3,000 pesos (≈ $166 USD)
  • Includes: Paella, regional wines, local beer, live music (featuring CETYS student orchestra), and your good deed of the day
  • Restaurants Supporting the Cause: Punta Morro, Evoke, La Cevichería, and La Ensenada

Skip the boring weekend plans. Come hungry, come thirsty, and come ready to make a difference. After all, nothing says “I care about education” quite like a second helping of paella.

For tickets or donations, visit: https://www.cetys.mx/generosidad/en/product/summer-paella-2025/

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Big names, big wine plans — The Fiestas de la Vendimia 2025 press crew: Wenceslao Martínez (Provino), Andrés Bremer (Proturismo), Álvaro Romero (Provino), and Yolanda Navarro (Tourism), standing tall for Baja’s boldest wine season yet.
 Accidents, Ensenada, Wine

Wine, Music and Magic Await at Baja’s Fiestas de la Vendimia 2025

This week, the Valle turned up the charm and the wine for the official press launch of the 35th Fiestas de la Vendimia. The venue? Viña de Liceaga, of course. And if the flawless service and perfectly laid tables are any clue, we’d bet Myrna Liceaga had a hand in supervising the event. From Gringo Gazette North, a big thank-you to the Provino team for treating us like royalty—we felt every sip of the hospitality.

  • #Under the oaks, over the top — Robleza, the restaurant at Viña de Liceaga, served up elegance with every bite. Pretty sure Myrna Liceaga had a hand in this.
  • Mic up, wine down
  • #Table’s set, let the pouring begin 🍽️🥂
  • #Big names, big wine plans — The Fiestas de la Vendimia 2025 press crew: Wenceslao Martínez (Provino), Andrés Bremer (Proturismo), Álvaro Romero (Provino), and Yolanda Navarro (Tourism), standing tall for Baja’s boldest wine season yet
  • #Press, ready, sip! 📸✍️
  • #First impressions: 10/10 reception
  • #Spoiled by PROVINO—don’t stop now! 😎🍇

The 2025 edition, themed “Terruño, Identidad y Vocación,” will run from July 30 to August 24 with more than 45 events celebrating wine, land, and the people who make it all happen. Expect everything from vertical tastings and intimate 20-person dinners to wild, woodfire-fueled paella competitions and full-scale music festivals. Because that’s just how Baja rolls.

Kicking Things Off – Muestra del Vino | Aug. 1

This is the OG of wine events in Baja and it’s still going strong. Held at the Centro Cultural Riviera, Muestra del Vino will showcase 80 wineries, over 160 wine labels, and bites from 50 local restaurants—all for $1,450 pesos. Oh, and there’s a secret headliner on the main stage. Who? They’re not telling. But with five stages covering everything from jazz to norteño, no one’s going home disappointed. Pro tip: It’s 18+ only, so leave the littles with abuela.

Paella Showdown – Aug. 17 at Viña de Liceaga

This is the big one. The Dr. Ramón García Ocejo Paella Contest isn’t just a cook-off—it’s a campestre family fiesta under 120-year-old oak trees and, yes, one majestic 500-year-old roble. More than 90 paella teams will compete with over 160 wines from Baja’s best wineries. The firewood-only rule (no gas!) adds smoky magic to the mix. Tickets are $1,450 pesos, kids under 12 get in free, and if history tells us anything, it’ll sell out by 5 PM. So show up early and hungry.

Wines, Roots, and Roaming

Beyond the big names, there are also six multidimensional events, weekly guided tours to Provino-affiliated wineries, and 46+ food and wine pairings planned. Whether you’re into intimate dinners, educational catas, or just sipping with friends, there’s something for everyone.

Over 100,000 visitors are expected, with a projected $800 million pesos in economic impact. So, yeah, it’s kind of a big deal.

Need Tickets or Want to Stalk the Calendar?

Find everything at: provinobc.mx

You bring the glass. We’ll bring the buzz.

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Baja’s Wine Guide Wins Global Gold at Gourmand Awards
 Articles, Ensenada, Wine

Vinitácora Puts Baja Wine on the World Stage

If you thought Baja’s wine scene was just local buzz, think again. Vinitácora: Wines and Wineries of Baja California just snagged the world title for Wine Guides at the Gourmand Awards 2025 in Portugal—beating out publications from over 60 countries . ¡Salud!

What’s the Gourmand Award?

Known as the “Oscars of food and wine books,” the Gourmand World Cookbook Awards have celebrated stellar gastronomic literature since 1995, with over 200 countries competing annually . In 2025, winners were announced in Estoril, Portugal—where Vinitácora took first place for Best Wine Guide worldwide  .

Why Vinitácora Stands Out

This isn’t just a pretty picture book. Vinitácora offers deep dive coverage of 80+ wineries, 900 wines, and all seven valleys that define Baja’s wine map  . Organized, bilingual, and user-friendly, it’s built for wine travelers—whether you’re Instagram-savvy or GPS-wary  .

Vinitácora: More Than a Guide

Founded by sommelier-authors Lorena Hernández (Vionda) and Fabián Jáuregui, the guide isn’t just a list—it’s a living tool. They’re celebrating 10 years of highlighting Mexico’s wine regions—covering Valle de Guadalupe and touching Aguascalientes and California too  .

In Portugal, they stole the spotlight with a special tasting event in Cascais, showcasing flagship Baja wineries like Adobe Guadalupe, Casa de Piedra, and Vena Cava  .

What This Means for Baja

Baja’s Secretary of Tourism, Miguel Aguíñiga Rodríguez, praised the win as proof that the region is now an international wine powerhouse  . Vinitácora’s award-winning content, maps, expert notes, and aesthetic design convinced judges worldwide  .

Local winery owners say this kind of shine can turn corks into visitors—and shipments. It’s marketing gold for Baja’s wine tourism industry  .

A Toast to the Future

With this global medal, Baja California not only cements its title as the Capital of Mexican Wine—it doubles down. Backed by Vinitácora’s credibility, the Tourism Secretariat plans to promote it at international fairs and tastings  .

🟣 No Bad News. Just big sips and even bigger wins for Baja.

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Viñedos en Flor 2025: Wine, Art & Causes Worth Toasting To
 Articles, Charities, Ensenada, Tourism, Wine

Experience Viñedos en Flor: A Festival of Wine, Food, and Fun

“Terruño, Identidad y Vocación” (Which basically means: This land was made for wine—and we’ve got the talent to prove it)

This June 13 and 14, Ensenada will bloom—literally—with the 19th edition of Viñedos en Flor. It’s where wine, art, food, and social causes come together in the prettiest season of the year.

Hosted by the Provino Committee, the event will unfold at Rancho San Gabriel. Organizers describe it as a family-friendly festival filled with education, sustainability, and, of course, wine.

A Program with Purpose

On Friday, June 13, the event begins with Conferencias en Flor at CEVIT Auditorium at CETYS University in Ensenada, Baja California. Sessions run from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., in both English and Spanish.

Speakers will explore topics like water conservation, migration, and land care. The lineup includes voices from the Berry Good Food Foundation, Capacity is limited to only 100 seats.

Earth Works: The Cultural Evolution of Farm Workers (Future Thought Leaders Panel)

The main event takes place on Saturday, June 14, from 12 to 5 p.m. at Rancho San Gabriel. This celebration will feature:

  • 80 local wineries
  • 160 wine labels to sample
  • An ecological corridor and educational zones
  • Entry capped at 1,000 guests only

Tickets cost $950 pesos and include a wine glass and unlimited tasting. Kids under 18 enter for free.
🍇 Buy tickets here 🍇

Eat, Sip, Give

Chef Miguel Bahena leads the food section, joined by chefs who work by donation. In addition, organizers are seeking fruit and vegetable donations to support local, seasonal cooking.

Furthermore, dishes will highlight regional flavors and pair beautifully with the wines. You’ll eat well, drink better, and support a great cause—all in one bite.

Besides, a farmers market will showcase bread, cheese, honey, lavender, and more. Every product comes straight from the Ensenada valley.

Meanwhile, kids get their own fun:

  • Art workshops for ages 3–11 (Prisma Academy sponsor)
  • Kite-making
  • A mini zoo from Pai Pai
  • A child-friendly food area, thanks to La Canasta

Art With a Mission

The event’s signature fundraising moment is the “Artists & Kids” art auction. Proceeds will support schools, sports fields, and the Porvenir Fire Department, which received 96,000 pesos last year.

This year, organizers expect to raise over 735,000 pesos. This isn’t a commercial festival—it’s a community effort.

Who’s Running the Show?

The logistics are managed by Daniel Sánchez Olivares, who’s been coordinating the event for six years. His wife, Gaby Melchum of Hacienda Guadalupe, is also rumored to be lending her magic touch.

Viñedos en Flor isn’t just about sipping under the sun. It’s about roots—of vines, people, and purpose. And like a good vintage, this event just keeps getting better with time.

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