Guanajuato should definitely be on your list of places to visit in Mexico. This state has everything: stunning natural beauty, Spanish colonial cities, cultural festivals, and great shopping. Plus, with more than 25 wineries, it’s a wine lover’s paradise.
Wine isn’t as popular in Mexico as tequila, beer, or mezcal, but it’s gaining traction. The Ruta del Vino (Wine Route) in Guanajuato offers a more personalized experience than the more established Valle de Guadalupe in Baja. You’ll find boutique wineries, great value tastings often including food pairings, and tours of vineyards.
During our weeks in Guanajuato, we explored various places like Guanajuato City, Dolores Hidalgo, La Gruta hot springs, and San Miguel de Allende, celebrating my birthday by diving into the local food and wine scene. Note: Guanajuato City is the state’s capital, though the names can be a bit confusing.
Winemaking in Guanajuato is relatively new, dating back to the late 1990s and early 2000s. With its high altitude, cool nights, and hot days, the region is ideal for grape growing. Winemakers here often use “old world” techniques, focusing on natural wines with no additives or pesticides. This results in fewer headaches and hangovers for drinkers.
Guanajuato’s up-and-coming wine scene means winemakers are still experimenting with grape varietals that complement the local spicy food. From our tastings, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Tempranillo stood out.
The official Ruta del Vino stretches from Dolores Hidalgo to San Miguel de Allende, but you’ll find vineyards scattered throughout the state. We traveled around, visiting many wineries and enjoying great meals surrounded by vineyards. Here are some must-visit wineries for your trip:
Dos Búhos – Known for 100% certified organic wines, you’ll find a charming setup with mesquite trees and soft jazz. Tastings here include food pairings and are reasonably priced.
Rancho Toyan – Unique with its medieval theme, this winery offers a memorable tour featuring gargoyles, monk statues, and dimly-lit wine cellars. Tastings include a tour and food pairing.
Viñedo Los Arcángeles – A versatile spot with wine tastings, outdoor cinema, camping, and more. The winery offers three labels and beautiful grounds where you can stay overnight.
La Santisima Trinidad – Part of a group that includes Viñedos San Lucas and Viñedos San Francisco, this winery offers everything from tastings to lavender production tours. The setting is stunning for a meal.
Tres Raices – A modern winery with dining options and luxurious villas. Tastings include a tour, and their chic decor and beautiful vineyards make for a great visit.
San José Lavista – A romantic venue perfect for weddings, offering great wines and meals. The setting includes a chapel and stunning views.
Cuna de Tierra – The oldest winery in Guanajuato, with beautiful surroundings and great service. Although the wines weren’t to our taste, the vineyard tour and restaurant can be enjoyable.
Bernat – A smaller, family-run estate where you’ll get a personal tour from the owner. This boutique winery offers unique tasting experiences, especially during harvest season.
Before setting off, make sure to call ahead to each winery to make reservations and confirm they are open. Most wineries only operate a few days a week, and English-speaking guides may not be available every day.
For getting around, hiring a driver for the day is the best option. Some tours include pick-up and drop-off from your hotel, wine tastings, and tours. Cycling through vineyards is also available at some wineries for a peaceful experience.
You can visit these wineries from most cities in the state like Guanajuato City, San Miguel de Allende, León, Dolores Hidalgo, and Celaya. Hopefully, this guide helps you plan your winery visits in Guanajuato. Even if you’re not a big wine drinker, the estates and their restaurants are definitely worth a visit. Enjoy your time among the vines!
