Ojos Negros Valley Wine and Cheese Route Tour in Baja California

Nestled in the heart of Baja California, the Ojos Negros Valley offers a one-of-a-kind culinary journey for discerning travelers. This comprehensive tour combines artisan cheese tastings and renowned local wines, providing an immersive experience that tantalizes the senses. From traditional cheesemaking techniques to expertly curated wine pairings, the route promises to delight both casual enthusiasts and seasoned connoisseurs alike. With round-trip transportation and knowledgeable local guides, guests are invited to embark on a flavourful expedition that unveils the rich gastronomic heritage of this captivating region. What secrets might these rolling hills and hidden cellars hold?

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Wine Tours In Ensenada.

Key Points

• Immersive wine and cheese experience in the Ojos Negros Valley, east of Ensenada, Mexico.
• Visit to the historic La Cava de Marcelo for traditional Ramonetti cheesemaking demonstrations and tastings.
• Gourmet lunch options featuring Baja California cuisine and lavender-infused dishes.
• Guided wine tastings at Infinito Winery and a downtown Ensenada wine bar with over 230 regional labels.
• Inclusive round-trip hotel transportation and a maximum group size of 50 for an intimate tour.

Tour Overview

The Ojos Negros Valley Wine and Cheese Route Tour allows visitors to embark on an immersive experience east of Ensenada, Mexico, where they can savor artisan cheeses paired with quality wines.

The tour includes a visit to La Cava de Marcelo, known for its Ramonetti cheesemaking since 1911. Here, guests will enjoy a guided tasting of the cheeses paired with local wines.

The tour also includes a gourmet lunch option at La Casa Marcelo, as well as a visit to a downtown Ensenada wine bar featuring over 230 regional Baja California wine labels.

Round-trip hotel transport is included, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey through this picturesque wine and cheese region.

Itinerary and Stops

Guests begin the Ojos Negros Valley Wine and Cheese Route Tour with a hotel pickup in Ensenada at 11:00 am.

The first stop is at La Cava de Marcelo, where guests can enjoy a cheese and wine tasting and take a guided tour of the cheesemaking facilities.

For lunch, guests have the option to visit La Casa Marcelo or Aleyha Lavender Farm.

The tour’s final stop is at a downtown Ensenada wine bar, where guests can sample a variety of regional Baja California wine labels before returning to their hotel.

The itinerary is designed to provide a comprehensive experience of the Ojos Negros Valley’s renowned wine and cheese offerings.

Included in the Tour

Typically, the Ojos Negros Valley Wine and Cheese Route Tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and a local expert guide fluent in both English and Spanish.

Bottled water, snacks, and even free souvenirs are provided throughout the journey.

The tour also includes a wine tasting at the renowned Infinito Winery, where visitors can sample the region’s finest vintages.

With a maximum group size of 50 travelers, the tour ensures an intimate and personalized experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious explorer, the Ojos Negros Valley tour offers a well-rounded and inclusive package to learn about the rich wine and cheese culture of Baja California.

Additional Tour Details

Confirmation is received upon booking the Ojos Negros Valley Wine and Cheese Route Tour, ensuring travelers have all the necessary details before embarking on their journey.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed. It’s not recommended for those with serious medical conditions or back problems.

The minimum number of people per booking is 2, and the minimum drinking age is 18. Travelers are advised to dress casually and wear comfortable walking shoes, and it’s recommended to have breakfast before the tour.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

The additional tour details include:

1. Not wheelchair accessible, but stroller accessible and service animals allowed.

2. Not recommended for travelers with serious medical conditions or back problems.

3. Minimum of 2 people per booking; minimum drinking age is 18.

4. Dress code: casual with comfortable walking shoes; breakfast recommended before the tour.

Traveler Reviews and Feedback

The Ojos Negros Valley Wine and Cheese Route Tour consistently receives rave reviews from travelers, with a 5.0 rating based on 25 reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor.

Travelers highlight the exceptional knowledge of the guides, the quality of the wines, and the overall excellence of the experience. Many express interest in returning to the region to explore more of the local wineries.

The tour offers a unique opportunity to discover the artisanal cheeses and acclaimed wines of Baja California’s Ojos Negros Valley, leaving visitors eager to share their positive experiences with others.

With its high ratings and enthusiastic feedback, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking an unforgettable wine and culinary adventure in Mexico.

Cheesemaking at La Cava De Marcelo

What makes La Cava de Marcelo, known for Ramonetti cheesemaking since 1911, a highlight of the Ojos Negros Valley Wine and Cheese Route Tour?

Visitors can look forward to a guided tour of the cheesemaking facilities, where they’ll witness the artisanal process that has been perfected over generations.

The tour provides an inside look at:

1. The traditional techniques used to craft the famous Ramonetti cheese, a Mexican specialty.

2. The aging cellars where the wheels of cheese mature, developing their distinctive flavors.

3. The attention to detail and pride demonstrated by the cheesemakers, who carry on the family legacy.

4. The opportunity to sample the artisanal cheeses, perfectly paired with the region’s celebrated wines.

Lunch Options Along the Route

After exploring the cheesemaking process at La Cava de Marcelo, visitors can refuel with a gourmet lunch at La Casa Marcelo or indulge in the lavender-infused offerings at Aleyha Lavender Farm along the Ojos Negros Valley Wine and Cheese Route.

At La Casa Marcelo, guests can enjoy a locally-sourced, seasonal menu featuring regional Baja California cuisine.

The lavender farm, on the other hand, offers a unique culinary experience with lavender-infused dishes and refreshing lavender lemonade.

Both lunch options provide an opportunity to further take in the local food and wine culture of the Ojos Negros Valley before continuing the journey to explore the area’s renowned wineries.

Downtown Ensenada Wine Bar Visit

Finally, the tour concludes with a visit to a downtown Ensenada wine bar, where travelers can sample over 230 regional Baja California wine labels.

This is the perfect opportunity to explore the vibrant local wine scene and discover new favorites. The wine bar features a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, allowing guests to relax and savor the diverse flavors of the region.

The visit to the downtown Ensenada wine bar includes:

1. Tasting a selection of Baja California wines, ranging from bold reds to refreshing whites.

2. Learning about the unique terroir and winemaking techniques from the knowledgeable staff.

3. Purchasing bottles to take home and share with friends and family.

4. Enjoying the lively ambiance and stunning views of the city’s waterfront.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Take This Tour?

The best time to take this tour is during the mild, dry months of spring or fall. The weather is pleasant for outdoor activities, and the vineyards and cheesemakers are likely to be operating at their peak.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Private Groups?

The tour can be customized for private groups. Groups can work with the tour operator to adjust the itinerary, group size, and inclusions to meet their specific needs and preferences. Customization options are available upon request.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour provider doesn’t currently offer discounts for seniors or students. However, they may be willing to discuss potential package deals or group rates for larger parties. It’s best to inquire directly with the tour operator for the latest offerings and pricing information.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Change My Plans?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Travelers can change their plans without penalty if they notify the tour operator within this timeframe.

Are There Any Additional Food or Drink Options Available During the Tour?

Along With the wine tasting, the tour offers a gourmet lunch option at La Casa Marcelo. Travelers can also visit a downtown Ensenada wine bar to sample more regional Baja California wines, though tastings there are not included in the tour price.

Recap

The Ojos Negros Valley Wine and Cheese Route Tour in Baja California offers an immersive culinary experience, blending artisan cheese tastings with exquisite local wines.

From traditional cheesemaking at La Cava de Marcelo to a downtown Ensenada wine bar, the tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the region’s gourmet offerings, complemented by round-trip transport and insights from local expert guides.