Santo Tomas in Guadalupe Valley

Bodegas Santo Tomas is known as the oldest winery in Baja California being established in 1888, but it actually began in 1871 and was once named Rancho de los Dolores. Don Loreto Amador of the village of Santo Tomas purchased the former mission vineyards and started a commercial winery operation in that valley that lasted for thirty-one years. Don Francisco de Andonegui and Don Miquel Ormart purchased the winery in 1888, moving the main operation facilities to Ensenada in 1929.  One year later in 1930, the governor of Baja California, Abelardo Rodriguez bought the winery, planted 2000 hectares of grapes and hired Italian enologist, Esteban Ferro as a consultant. Generally speaking, these two men are responsible from transforming the Mexican wine industry from growing substandard fruit to introducing and cultivating the classic French and Italian varietals with cuttings of Barbera, Nebbiolo, Dolcetto, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Grenache. This period in Baja California wine culture history marked the beginning of the propagation of world-class fruit and established the foundation of quality for future winemakers.

Over the last one hundred years Bodega Santo Tomas has evolved around facilities and vineyards in Valle de Santo Tomas and in downtown Ensenada. But, few wine lovers are aware that Santo Tomas now has a wine tasting room and winemaking facility in Guadalupe Valley. Several years ago the owners purchased an older, established winery and vineyards, slowly transforming the property into a dynamic tour destination. In addition, they’ve done the same with the quality of their wine which has quietly emerged via award-winning compositions upon the premium wine market. The current wine portfolio is vast and diverse with thirty-eight single varietal and blends of white and red wine grapes. My favorites are: Tempranillo, Barbera , and their Mision 1889 –blend of Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon and Barbera. They have some premium white wines as well: Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, Chenin Blanc and Chardonnay. But, their wine portfolio is diverse and well-balanced, so I suggest you explore their wines and discover you own personal preferences.

The Santo Tomas facility in Guadalupe Valley in located just west of Highway 3 near Km 95. As you enter the wine country from Ensenada and cross the first bridge, you’ll notice the entrance is on the left side of the highway, marked by a gate and two large, black flags. Renovation to the old winery includes an educational center, scenic patio, guided tours, retail wine sales, olive oils and gifts. The facility is open every day from 10 am until 5 p.m. Winery manager, Ivan Cortez has plans to host special mole parings with Santo Tomas wines, educational seminars, weddings and special events. Santo Tomas winery has dramatically improved the quality of their wines and has brought their new outlook to Guadalupe Valley. This fall season is the perfect time to visit the new facility. Contact: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (646) 151-9333.

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