Ensenada: Ojos Negros Valley Cheese and Wine Tasting Tour

Traveling through Baja California’s countryside offers a chance to experience genuine local flavors, and this cheese and wine tour in the Ojos Negros Valley aims to deliver just that. It’s a thoughtfully curated six-hour journey that combines scenic vineyard visits, expert insights into cheese craftsmanship, and a relaxed outdoor picnic. The tour is offered by Viva Ensenada Excursiones & Tours, with a solid 4.2-star rating that suggests many travelers find it worthwhile.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience are the opportunities to learn about regional winemaking traditions firsthand and to enjoy a multisensory tasting—from cheeses to wines, with a few surprises along the way. A potential consideration is the price—at $44 per person, it is reasonably priced, but not including tasting fees or meals—so budget accordingly. This tour is best suited for lovers of authentic food experiences and those curious about Baja’s emerging wine scene, especially if you’re looking for a manageable, well-structured day trip.

Key Points

• Authentic regional focus on Baja California’s unique cheeses and wines
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the learning and tasting experience
• The tour includes visits to notable wineries and a cheese-making farm
• Outdoor picnic with regional ingredients offers a relaxed, flavorful conclusion
• Price reflects a good value for a full day of tastings and tours, but additional fees apply for tastings
• The experience is private, making it intimate and personalized

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Ojos Negros Valley Cheese and Wine Tour

The Starting Point: Ensenada’s Gateway to the Valley

The tour begins with convenient pickup from your hotel or Airbnb in Ensenada’s urban zone, which is great for avoiding the hassle of navigating rural roads with a rental car. The transportation provided ensures you can relax and focus on the scenery and conversations, rather than worrying about directions.

The comfortable vehicle whisking you away is a small part of the experience, setting a relaxed tone for the day. The drive from Ensenada to Ojos Negros is about 30-40 minutes, giving you time to admire the landscape—rolling hills, vineyards, and the occasional mountain backdrop that make this region visually appealing.

First Stop: Bodegas de San Rafael Winery

The flagship of this tour is the visit to Bodegas de San Rafael, known as the pioneering winery of the region. Here, we loved the chance to see the origins of Baja wine production, often overshadowed by more famous counterparts in California. The guide provides a detailed tour of the winery, explaining how the grapes are cultivated and transformed into wine.

The tasting session here is a highlight; you’ll sample several locally sourced wines while soaking in the winery’s peaceful surroundings. Reviewers often comment on the knowledgeable guides who explain the nuances of each wine—an essential part of understanding what makes Baja wines special.

Next: Infinito Winery

A short drive takes you to Infinito Winery, which offers a different vibe—more modern, with a focus on innovative practices and boutique wines. Here, the focus is on quality over quantity, and you’ll often find unique varietals not found elsewhere. The guide’s commentary helps you understand the distinct characteristics of each wine, making the tasting more engaging.

The visit at Infinito provides a balanced contrast to San Rafael, showcasing the diversity within Baja’s wine industry, and proves the region’s versatility and growing reputation.

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Cheese Crafting at Rancho La Campana and Cava de Quesos

After two winery visits, the tour shifts focus to cheese-making, with a visit to Rancho La Campana and Cava de Quesos, operated by Marcelo Ramonetti. The highlight here is the opportunity to see how regional cheeses are crafted, which adds a layer of authenticity to the experience.

Guests are often impressed by the expertise of the cheese artisans; one reviewer noted, “The guide’s knowledge about cheese craftsmanship made the tasting even more enjoyable.” You’ll learn about the process, from milk sourcing to aging techniques, which elevates the tasting from simple indulgence to educational delight.

Tasting in the Underground Cellar

The heart of the cheese experience is the tasting session held in an underground cellar—an atmospheric setting that enhances the flavor experience. Expect a selection of cheeses, freshly baked bread, and wines sourced from the local vineyards. This pairing is often praised for its balance and freshness, highlighting the regional ingredients.

Outdoor Picnic Experience

The tour wraps up with a relaxing outdoor picnic, where the culinary team showcases regional ingredients prepared in the Mediterranean tradition. This laid-back setting allows you to digest and savor the flavors, while enjoying scenic views of the Ojos Negros Valley.

Guests frequently mention how this picnic provides a perfect end to a day full of tasting and learning, with many appreciating the opportunity to chat leisurely with guides and fellow travelers.

Overall Value and Experience

The $44 price point offers a solid value considering the all-inclusive transportation, multiple visits, and guided tastings. However, it’s important to note that tasting fees are not included—so if you want to sample more wines or cheeses beyond the tastings, be prepared for additional costs.

The duration of six hours strikes a nice balance—long enough to enjoy the sights and flavors without feeling rushed. The private group setting ensures a more personalized experience, with the guides often praised for their knowledge and friendliness.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for foodies and wine lovers seeking an authentic taste of Baja California’s culinary scene. It’s also suitable for travelers who appreciate a relaxed, educational setting with a focus on regional products. Keep in mind that it’s not designed for children under 10, pregnant women, or those with mobility challenges, given the nature of the visits and outdoor elements.

Final Thoughts: Why Choose This Experience?

The Ojos Negros Valley Cheese and Wine Tasting Tour strikes a nice balance of scenic enjoyment, local flavors, and educational insight. The guided visits to renowned wineries and a cheese-making farm provide a well-rounded introduction to Baja’s emerging reputation as a wine and cheese destination. For those who enjoy learning about food and drink in a relaxed atmosphere, this tour delivers.

What stands out most is the knowledgeable guides, who enrich the experience with their expertise and friendly approach. The inclusion of an outdoor picnic with regional ingredients adds a personal touch that most similar tours lack.

This tour is a good fit for travelers wanting a manageable, intimate experience that combines scenic drives, expert tastings, and authentic regional cuisine. It offers real value for a reasonable price, especially if you’re interested in small-group, personalized tours.

If you’re looking to deepen your appreciation for Baja California’s wine and cheese scene, this tour provides a delightful, taste-focused adventure that’s worth considering.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation to the vineyards and Rancho La Campana is included, along with pickup and drop-off at your hotel or Airbnb in Ensenada’s urban zone.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 6 hours, giving ample time to visit multiple locations, enjoy tastings, and relax during the picnic.

Are tasting fees included?
No, tasting fees are not included. You’ll sample wines and cheeses as part of the tour, but additional tasting fees may apply if you wish to sample more than the included offerings.

Can I bring my camera?
Absolutely. It’s a scenic route and atmospheric wineries, making it a great chance to capture memories.

Is this suitable for children?
Not really—children under 10 years old are not recommended, and the tour is geared towards adults interested in food and wine.

Does this tour accommodate dietary restrictions?
Specific dietary restrictions are not mentioned; it’s best to inform the provider in advance if you have particular needs.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides are available in both Spanish and English, providing clear explanations and engaging storytelling throughout.

Choosing this tour means enjoying Baja California’s delicious flavors and beautiful scenery without the worry of planning each step. It’s a great way to connect with local producers and truly taste the region’s potential.

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