Ensenada: Ojos Negros Valley Cheese and Wine Tasting Tour

Discover the Flavors of Ojos Negros Valley on a Cheese and Wine Tour

The Ensenada: Ojos Negros Valley Cheese and Wine Tasting Tour offers a flavorful journey through one of Baja California’s most scenic regions. Priced at $44 per person and lasting 6 hours, this private experience is led by a knowledgeable guide from Viva Ensenada Excursiones & Tours, which holds a 4.2-star rating.

This tour is ideal for those interested in exploring local wineries and artisanal cheeses with a focus on authentic regional ingredients. It features visits to renowned Bodegas de San Rafael and Infinito wineries, alongside a visit to Rancho La Campana and the Cava de Quesos. While the tour provides transportation and a guided experience, it does not include tasting fees, food, or souvenirs, so guests should come prepared for additional costs.

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Key Points

• Price and Duration: $44 per person for 6 hours of tasting and touring
• Main Stops: Bodegas de San Rafael, Infinito winery, Rancho La Campana, and Cava de Quesos
• Focus: Wine tastings and cheese craft demonstrations, with a regional outdoor picnic
• Highlights: Learning about cheese-making, sampling locally sourced wines, and enjoying a picnic with regional ingredients
• Group Details: Private group with a live guide in Spanish and English
• Logistics: Includes transportation and hotel pickup/drop-off in Ensenada’s urban zone

Starting Point: Ensenada’s Urban Zone and Transportation Details

The tour departs from hotels or Airbnbs located in the urban zone of Ensenada. Transportation is provided, making it convenient to explore the Ojos Negros Valley without the hassle of driving. Guests are advised to bring comfortable shoes, a camera, sunscreen, water, and appropriate clothing for outdoor activities. The pickup and drop-off service ensures a seamless experience right from the start.

Visiting Bodegas de San Rafael: The Pioneer of Regional Wines

The tour begins at Bodegas de San Rafael, the region’s first winery, where guests explore its historic cellars and see how the wines are crafted. The guide explains the winemaking process, offering tastings of their signature bottles. This stop sets the tone for the day, showcasing the region’s winemaking roots and its modern innovations.

Exploring the Infinito Winery: Modern Techniques and Tasting Sessions

Next, the Infinito winery welcomes guests with its contemporary approach to winemaking. Visitors learn about the different varieties produced here and indulge in tastings that highlight the winery’s unique style. The focus at Infinito is on quality and local sourcing, providing a well-rounded wine experience amid the scenic vineyard surroundings.

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Cheese Artisanship at Rancho La Campana and Cava de Quesos

A highlight of this tour is the visit to Rancho La Campana and Cava de Quesos, where the art of cheese-making takes center stage. The guides introduce the artisanal process behind creating a variety of cheeses, emphasizing local ingredients and Mediterranean traditions. Guests have the opportunity to observe cheese craftsmanship firsthand and learn about the aging process.

Cheese, Bread, and Wine Tasting in the Underground Cellar

Following the tours, guests participate in a tasting session held in an underground cellar. Here, cheeses and freshly baked bread are paired with locally sourced wines, offering a sensory experience that highlights regional flavors. The guide shares insights on pairing techniques and regional culinary traditions, making this a memorable part of the day.

Outdoor Picnic with Regional Ingredients

A relaxing outdoor picnic is included, allowing guests to enjoy the scenic landscape of Ojos Negros Valley. The culinary team led by Marcelo Ramonetti prepares regional ingredients in the Mediterranean style, showcasing the best of Baja California’s produce. This laid-back meal complements the tasting experience and offers a chance to soak in the valley’s natural beauty.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour fee covers transportation to all stops and the services of a live bilingual guide. However, tasting fees, food, and souvenirs are not included in the price, so guests should plan for additional expenses if they wish to sample or purchase products. The tour is private, providing a personalized experience, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for flexibility.

Accessibility and Suitability for Different Travelers

Guests should wear comfortable shoes and bring essentials like camera, sunscreen, and water. The experience is not suitable for children under 10 years, pregnant women, or wheelchair users due to the outdoor nature of the stops and some physical activity involved. The tour is conducted in Spanish and English, accommodating a broad range of visitors.

Comparing Similar Tours and Options

This cheese and wine tour aligns with other offerings in Baja California, such as vineyard visits and wine route tours. What sets this experience apart is its focus on artisanal cheese alongside wine tasting, providing a richer culinary perspective. It offers a good value at $44, especially considering the inclusion of transportation and a private guide.

Why Choose This Tour in Ensenada?

The Ojos Negros Valley Cheese and Wine Tasting Tour offers a well-balanced mix of vineyard explorations, cheese craftsmanship, and regional gastronomy. It suits travelers who appreciate authentic local products, enjoy outdoor scenery, and prefer a private, guided experience. The combination of visits to historic wineries and artisanal cheese producers makes this tour a comprehensive taste of Baja California’s culinary scene.

Final Thoughts on the Ojos Negros Valley Cheese and Wine Tour

This tour provides a balanced, immersive experience for those interested in Baja California’s wine and cheese culture. The private group setting and knowledgeable guides ensure a comfortable and informative journey. While guests should budget for tasting fees and additional food purchases, the included transportation and detailed visits make this a convenient and rewarding option.

If a relaxed yet enriching day in the countryside appealingly combines wine, cheese, and regional ingredients, this tour is an excellent choice. It delivers a genuine taste of Ojos Negros Valley’s culinary craftsmanship, with thoughtful stops that highlight local traditions and flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
Transportation to the vineyards, Rancho La Campana, and Cava de Quesos, plus a guided experience in both Spanish and English.

Are tasting fees included?
No, tasting fees are not included, so additional costs apply for wine and cheese tastings.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or wheelchair users due to outdoor stops and physical activities.

What should I bring for the tour?
Guests should bring comfortable shoes, a camera, sunscreen, water, and comfortable outdoor clothing.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, the tour allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and booking is flexible with reserve now, pay later options.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby