Baja: Mexico’s wine country
A Spanish conquistador ordered the first vineyards planted in 1524.
Mexico’s wine industry easily predates America’s, said Shane Mitchell in Saveur.com. A Spanish conquistador ordered the first vineyards planted in 1524, and the Old World cuttings thrived, particularly in Baja California, where the Valle de Guadalupe provides “the perfect microclimate” for grapes.
2008 Viñas Pijoan Leonora ($36). This cabernet-merlot blend, like many Baja wines, has “a uniquely briny quality.” With its rich “cherry and bacon notes,” it pairs well with a smoky-sweet mole poblano.
2008 Balché Zinfandel ($95). This “peppery, herbaceous” zin is quite versatile, pairing well with “everything from chiles rellenos to chicken guisado.”
The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.
Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
2010 Monte Xanic Chardonnay ($19). This “buttery yet balanced” chardonnay features hints of “toasted almond and tropical fruit.” Serve it with enchiladas.
A free daily email with the biggest news stories of the day – and the best features from TheWeek.com
-
Wilde Cambridge: home-away-from-home in a prime city spotThe Week Recommends This laid-back aparthotel is the perfect base for a weekend of exploring
-
The best alcohol-free alternatives for Dry JanuaryThe Week Recommends Whether emerging from a boozy Christmas, or seeking a change in 2026, here are some of the best non-alcoholic beers, wines and spirits to enjoy
-
A lemon-shaped exoplanet is squeezing what we know about planet formationUnder the radar It may be made from a former star