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10 things to know about New Mexico's unique wine industry
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When you think of wine regions, places like California's Napa Valley and Oregon's Willamette Valley probably come to mind.
However, The Land of Enchantment also has a rich history of winemaking dating back centuries, and its wine industry continues to thrive.
Here are 10 facts about the state’s unique and vibrant wine industry that you should know:
1. A hidden hub for wine tourism
New Mexico's wine country is an excellent destination for wine enthusiasts. With more than 50 wineries, vineyards, and tasting rooms scattered throughout the state, there are numerous places to explore and enjoy a relaxed wine-tasting experience.
2. Ancient beginnings
New Mexico's winemaking tradition predates California's by over a century. Spanish settlers, including priests, brought grapevines with them in the early 17th Century, and the state's first vineyards were established before 1629, making it one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the United States.
3. The art scene is nearly as strong as the wine
Art goes in hand-in-hand with wine in New Mexico. Many of Mexico's new wineries are adorned with artwork and sculptures, creating a unique blend of wine and art. Select winery tours often include a visit to the art installations and galleries on the vineyard property.
4. Award-winning wines
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New Mexico's wineries consistently receive accolades and awards for their wines. Notably, the Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta is an event that showcases the region's wines and has gained recognition as one of the top wine and food festivals in the United States.
5. Chokecherry wine
Okay, so not many New Mexico wines are made from chokecherries. However, this wine is a novelty, and not too hard to find. If you get a bottle, you’ll notice the wine has a lot of cinnamon flavor to it. It’s something everyone should try once. Online reviews hint that you may want to try the Chokecherry wine at Las Nueve Niñas Winery.
10+ pictures of wine across New Mexico
6. Emerging varietals
New Mexico's wine scene is open to experimentation, and you can find a growing number of wineries cultivating lesser-known grape varieties. Whether it's the Spanish Tempranillo or the Italian Nebbiolo, these emerging varietals add dimensions to the state's wine offerings, attracting adventurous wine enthusiasts seeking something different.
7. High-elevation vineyards
New Mexico's vineyards are situated in pockets around the state. Different climates contribute to different wines. Many of the state’s vineyards are located at high elevation. This elevation not only provides cooler temperatures but also plenty of sunshine, creating an ideal environment for grape cultivation.
8. Home to Gruet Sparkling Wine
American wine experts know New Mexico for Gruet and their infamous sparkling wine. Gruet does not call their wines Champagne (the law states that only wines from the Champagne region of France can call themselves Champagne, with the exception of a few wineries that started making it before the law was made) but the pain-staking process is much the same. Sparkling wine is one of the things New Mexico does very well thanks to this special winery.
9. Spanish heritage
Many of New Mexico's winemakers draw inspiration from the Spanish winemaking traditions. The use of grape varieties like Tempranillo and Albariño and winemaking techniques that harken back to the state's colonial past provide a unique, Old World charm that the state’s wine scene is known for.
10. Thriving newcomers
New Mexico's wine industry isn't just rooted in its past; it's also welcoming newcomers and emerging vineyards. As the industry evolves, innovative winemakers are experimenting with grape varieties from all over the world, leading to a delightful array of unexpected and delightful flavors.
