Mexico

The Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico

The land of tequila and brandy! Not much room for wine, especially if reliant on the Mexican’s drinking habits. But still a wine producer in its own right, albeit a minor one.

There is, naturally, a Spanish influence very much apparent in Mexico due to the Spanish settlers. Still today many links are forged between the two countries for brandy production and now Spanish cava producers are investing in Mexico as a partnership for production.

Mexico is very hot and arid, so many International grape varieties cannot be successfully grown. Apart from some sun- worshipping reds, for example, Cabernet Sauvignon and Italian Nebbiolo. These are successfully grown with the help of irrigation.

The main area for vineyards is the Baja California, a peninsular that runs along the Pacific coast benefitting from the cooling winds (alike to California) and this helps the grapes ripen more slowly. The most important valley here is the Guadalupe Valley.

It is interesting to note, that here a few boutique wineries have emerged, specialising in Bordeaux blends, and are increasing the quality standards overall in the Mexican wine industry.

Wine Regions:

• Baja California

Classic Styles:

• Full-bodied, black fruit, spicy reds

Grape Varieties:

• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Nebbiolo
• Zinfandel

Must Tastes:

• Guadalupe Valley Bordeaux blends.