From Ensenada: Ojos Negros Valley Cheese & Wine Tasting Tour

If you’re looking to experience the genuine flavors of Baja California’s countryside, this Ojos Negros Valley Cheese & Wine Tasting Tour offers a fantastic blend of local charm, authentic products, and beautiful scenery. While it’s not a full-day extravaganza, this six-hour journey provides enough time to savor quality wines, taste artisanal cheeses, and enjoy a taste of rural Baja that’s often overlooked in favor of the more touristy Guadalupe Valley.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its focus on small-scale, artisan producers. You’ll get a chance to visit La Cava de Marcelo, where cheese is stored underground—an atmospheric setting that adds a special touch to the tasting. Also, the inclusion of the Aleyha Lavender Farm offers a wonderful splash of color and fragrance, perfect for anyone craving a sensory break from city life.

A potential downside? Some stops depend on availability, which means that your experience might vary slightly from day to day. Still, the flexibility keeps the tour relaxed and personalized. This experience suits travelers who enjoy authentic, behind-the-scenes visits and are eager to explore Baja’s lesser-known rural treasures.

Who will love this? It’s ideal for wine and cheese lovers wanting to deepen their appreciation for local craftsmanship, as well as those seeking a scenic, peaceful escape just outside Ensenada.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Focuses on small artisan producers and authentic local flavors.
• Scenic Drive: Offers beautiful views of the countryside east of Ensenada.
• Flexible Stops: Depending on availability, visits can include a lavender farm and winery.
• Balanced Tasting: Combines cheese with quality wines in atmospheric settings.
• Expert Guides: Highly praised guides make the experience engaging and informative.
• Good Value: For around $107, you get a well-rounded taste of Baja’s rural produce and scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

This tour is a wonderful way to see a different side of Baja California—away from the busy Guadalupe Valley. After being picked up at your hotel (with multiple convenient options around Ensenada and nearby towns), you’ll head roughly an hour east into the Ojos Negros region, where the landscape shifts from urban to lush countryside. It’s a visually appealing drive, with rolling hills and open spaces that instantly put you in a relaxed mood.

Infinito Winery: A Taste of Baja’s Wine Future

Your first stop is the Infinito Winery, where you’ll meet Pepe Pedrosa, the owner and winemaker. Although wine tastings are not included in the price, you’ll enjoy a tour of the vineyards and learn about their production process. The visit offers insight into Baja’s growing reputation as a serious wine region, especially with its focus on quality and innovation.

The winery visit is a highlight for many, with reviewers noting their guide’s knowledge and patience—perfect if you’re keen to learn about wine making beyond just sipping.

Rancho La Campana and La Cava de Marcelo

Next, you’ll visit Rancho La Campana, home to La Cava de Marcelo. Here, the underground cheese cellar is a visual treat—cool, dark, and atmospheric. You’ll tour the facilities, see how artisan cheeses are made, and enjoy a tasting of cheeses paired with local wines.

That pairing really is the star of this part of the tour. Travelers consistently mention the “excellent” quality of the cheese and wine, and the chance to visit a family-run operation that has been producing dairy products since 1911 makes this stop particularly special. One reviewer summed it up well by saying, “The guide was amazing and patient with us. The places we have been where great.” It’s clear that the authenticity and passion behind these products shine through.

A Touch of Lavender at Aleyha Lavender Farm

Depending on the day, you’ll also visit Aleyha Lavender Farm, quite literally the only lavender farm in Baja California. It’s a photo-worthy spot with vibrant purple fields and welcoming lagoons with ducks. The visit here offers a peaceful pause, and you can shop for organic lavender products—perfect souvenirs or gifts.

Keep in mind that the lavender farm is only available Friday through Sunday, so if that’s a priority, plan accordingly.

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Optional Gourmet Meal at Grosso Restaurant

Finally, if you’re hungry, you can enjoy a gourmet meal at Grosso Restaurant, which offers regional dishes flavored with lavender. This is at your own expense, but many find it a fitting way to end a day of tasting and sightseeing. It’s worth noting that the menu is based on local ingredients and the lavender theme, which adds a nice touch of local flavor.

Practicalities and Tips

This tour operates rain or shine, which is great for those who want to keep their plans. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and some cash for the shop and optional lunch. The tour is approximately six hours, with pickup starting in the mid-morning, so plan your day accordingly.

Group size varies, but the inclusion of private group options makes it flexible for families or small groups wishing for a more intimate experience. The tour is conducted in both English and Spanish, with enthusiastic guides who make the stops informative and fun.

Pricing at $107 per person is reasonable given the number of stops and the personalized nature of the visits. While tastings at Infinito Winery and Cava de Marcelo are not included, the high-quality offerings at each stop make this a worthwhile investment.

Authenticity and Value

What sets this tour apart is its focus on small producers and authentic experiences. You’re not just tasting wine and cheese; you’re learning about their origins, production, and the families behind them. This adds depth to the experience that many larger tours might overlook.

The guides consistently earn praise for their knowledge and patience, making the experience accessible even if you’re new to wine or cheese tasting.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate authentic, locally crafted products and scenic drives. It’s especially ideal for those who want a slower-paced, relaxed day with a chance to learn about Baja’s artisanal traditions.

It’s not well-suited for people with mobility issues, as the stops involve walking and some uneven terrain, especially at the lavender farm and winery. Also, if you’re seeking a full day of wine tastings or a more extensive winery tour, this might feel a bit light.

The Sum Up

This Ojos Negros Valley Cheese & Wine Tasting Tour offers a genuinely enjoyable taste of Baja California’s countryside. It’s a well-balanced mix of scenic drives, artisan food, and friendly, knowledgeable guides. The stops are thoughtfully chosen, and the atmosphere is relaxed, making it perfect for those who want to explore local craftsmanship without feeling rushed.

While some elements depend on availability, the core experience of cheese, wine, and scenic beauty remains strong. The tour’s focus on family-run wineries and cheese producers provides a look into Baja’s rural pride that’s hard to find on larger, more commercial tours.

If you’re a traveler who values authenticity, scenic beauty, and excellent local products, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy tasting, learning, and discovering Baja’s quieter, authentic side.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from designated pickup points is included, making it easy to relax and enjoy the day without worrying about driving.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately six hours, starting mid-morning, which gives you plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed.

Are tastings included at the wineries?
Tastings at Infinito Winery are not included in the price, but the guided tour and vineyard visit are part of the experience. Cheese and wine tastings at La Cava de Marcelo are included.

Can I visit the lavender farm?
Yes, but only on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. It’s a beautiful spot for photos and shopping for lavender products.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, participants must be 18 or older with valid ID to consume alcohol. It’s not designed for children.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, some cash, and your ID. Pets and large luggage are not permitted.

What happens if it rains?
The tour operates rain or shine, so be prepared for the weather. Most stops are indoors or have covered areas.

In sum, this tour offers a genuine, scenic, and flavorful taste of Baja’s rural artisanship. It’s perfect for those who want to connect with local producers, enjoy beautiful views, and sample the best of Baja California’s cheese and wine scene—without the crowds.

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