Wines of Mexico

Wine production in Mexico began with the arrival of the Spaniards in the 16^th century and slowly, the vineyards of Mexico have gained a world-wide reputation and now produce numerous award winning wines sold around the world.

Baja California is the major wine producing region in Mexico, accounting for 90% of the wines made in Mexico, but vineyards are also found in Sonora, Coahuila, Durango, Zacatecas, Aguascalientes and Queretaro, equaling a total of approximately 6200 acres of grapes planted throughout the country. 

The main varieties of wine grapes grown here are Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier, all five Bordeaux varietals, Grenache, Tempranillo, Dolcetto, Syrah and Petite Syrah.

Casa Madero, located in Parras, Coahuila, is perhaps the most famous vineyard in Mexico and it is the oldest winery in the Western Hemisphere, having been founded in 1597, which to this day still produces Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc and Syrah of award winning quality.

Historically, Mexicans have not been known as wine drinkers and, in fact, the average wine consumption per capita is a mere 2 glasses per year.  However, wine culture is now finding a foothold in Mexico and wine tours and festivals now occur around the country.  In Puerto Vallarta, the 6^th Annual Wine Fest will take place from March 21 to March 26, and with will include again this year the popular People’s Verbena Wine Fest, a free event with rides, shows, dancing and wine sales, held on March 25^th at Lorenzo Cardenas Park.