Cruising the Wineries of Mexico - History and Schedule

The upcoming wine cruises in October and December are creating a lot of buzz among Wineauz in Vegas! Before we talk about the details, let me tell you a little about the history of the wineries in Mexico. There are many skeptics who are still stunned that such wineries exist. I had a great time doing the research, and found quite a bit of surprising information. What I’m relating here is just a microcosm of the information and history of these wineries and wine region.

A Storied History

Already world-famous for its tequila, Mexico, particularly the area of Ensenada, is getting the attention of the world on the quality of its wines. Made in the Old World style, these wines pair well with the abundant gourmet and local cuisine found throughout the region.

Many of the wines are getting the attention of independent wine experts on the international judging circuit. As a result, many are flying under the Wine Spectator radar and therefore remain unknown to the American wine-drinking public. It’s interesting to learn that although the Mexican government seems particularly unconcerned about regulating the wine industry, the winemakers themselves are self-regulating, following the U.S. and European standards in producing and labeling their wines in order to avoid difficulties in the export market.

Wine was first made in Mexico in the 1500s and is the home of the oldest winery in the Americas. Apparently Cortes and his men, celebrating their victory over the Aztecs, drained the supply of wine they’d brought from Spain. That would never do. They had, however, brought vines over from Europe and planted them in the region. They were surprised at how well the vines did.

It shouldn’t have been a surprise. Then as now, the winegrowing areas are close to the Pacific where they can benefit from the cooling ocean breezes and mists. Hot days and cool nights is a classic winegrowing combination throughout the world, allowing grapes to develop their sugars without a corresponding drop in acidity. So naturally the vines thrived.

Modern Changes

Fast forward to current times.

After World War II winemakers made progress as the numbers of imported wines all but disappeared under the government’s steep tariffs. However, it was only when protections disappeared in the late 80s due to free trade agreements, i.e., NAFTA, that Mexican wineries began to focus on producing quality wines.

Regular wine festivals with tastings, food, and activities, grow in number and presence every year. Wineries are creating tasting rooms in order to accommodate the increased number of people who are learning about their wines. We are seeing the renaissance of a centuries-old - and heretofore almost unknown – industry with a history that is older than the United States.

Carignan, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Grenache, and Moscatel are just some of the grapes that are grown in the region and showcase their French origins.

The Cruises

Oh yeah. The cruises!

The first cruise will be on the weekend beginning Friday, October 31. The ship is the Carnival Paradise and will be departing from Long Beach, California. While the tours of the wineries are limited to a select few, there will be a host of activities, including shopping, exploring, or just relaxing on the golden beaches.

The Carnival Elation is the ship that we’ll be sailing from San Diego on our five-day cruise beginning December 8. The wineries will be explored on the return trip home since the first stop is Cabo San Lucas . Shopping, beaches, adventures, relaxing, and the fabulous wineries all promise an exciting and memorable time.

For more information about the cruises, contact Cruise Holidays of Summerlin at (702) 982-0268, or email Kevin at kevincruiseatLVcoxmaildotcom .

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