Santa Fe isn’t just about adobe buildings and vibrant arts; it’s also a surprisingly lively destination for wine lovers. While New Mexico’s wine scene may not be as famous as Napa or Sonoma, Santa Fe offers a variety of tours that blend local history, culture, and exceptional wines in a way that feels authentic and approachable. Whether you’re interested in a walking food tour that combines bites and wine, a luxury day trip to high-altitude vineyards, or a casual evening of tapas and tasting, Santa Fe has options that are worth exploring. One thing’s clear: these tours give you more than just wine—they offer an immersive experience into the region’s unique flavor and history.
Among the tours we love, the Taste of Santa Fe Wine and Dine Lunch stands out for its relaxed, walkable approach, pairing local bites with Santa Fe’s landmarks. For a more elegant, multi-course experience with wine pairings, the Savor Santa Fe: Wine Pairing Dinner is perfect. If scenic vineyard visits are your thing, the Santa Fe Day trip to Northern New Mexico Wine Country delivers stunning views and high-elevation wines. For a laid-back, insider look at Santa Fe’s wine scene with tapas, the Downtown Santa Fe Walking Wine, History, & Tapas Tour hits the sweet spot. Read on for detailed overviews of each, so you can pick your perfect sip.
1. Taste of Santa Fe Wine and Dine Lunch
At number 1 on our list, the Taste of Santa Fe Wine and Dine Lunch offers a delightful way to combine culinary bites and Santa Fe’s iconic sights. Priced at $212.50 per person, this 2.5 to 3-hour walking tour provides a generous sampling of local flavors while weaving through the city’s most historic landmarks. It starts at Santa Fe Plaza, where you’ll meet your guide for a tour that’s as much about food as it is about culture.
The tour visits three beloved local eateries, offering everything from spicy New Mexican cuisine to decadent chocolates. Along the way, you’ll see prominent sights like the New Mexico State Capitol, Palace of the Governors, and the Loretto Chapel with its famous Miraculous Staircase. The mix of food, history, and walking makes this a well-rounded experience. Reviewers love the informative guides, with one calling it the “best food tour in Santa Fe,” and describe the food as “fabulous.” This tour is perfect if you enjoy casual strolling combined with flavorful bites and an introduction to the city’s history.
Bottom Line: A laid-back, tasty way to explore Santa Fe’s historic core, ideal for travelers who want a bit of everything—history, culture, and good eats—all in one walk.
2. Savor Santa Fe: Wine Pairing Dinner
For those seeking a more refined evening, the Savor Santa Fe: Wine Pairing Dinner is a standout. At $233.50 per person, this experience runs about 2.5 to 3 hours and takes guests to three top-rated restaurants in Santa Fe. It’s a gourmet journey that combines multi-course meals with carefully selected wines, making it especially appealing for foodies and wine enthusiasts alike.
Starting in the Santa Fe Plaza, the tour visits iconic sites like the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi and the Palace of the Governors before heading to restaurant stops. Each venue offers high-quality New Mexican dishes paired with wines that complement each course beautifully. Guests often comment on the quality of the food and wine, with one reviewer mentioning the “beautiful presentation and delicious” offerings. This tour is best suited for those who appreciate gourmet dining and want to experience Santa Fe’s culinary scene at its finest.
Bottom Line: An elegant, guided dinner that pairs Santa Fe’s best dishes with wines, perfect for a special night out or celebrating a memorable trip.
3. Santa Fe Day trip to Northern New Mexico Wine Country
Taking the scenic route, the Santa Fe Day trip to Northern New Mexico Wine Country is a full-day adventure, priced at $299 per person and lasting around 6 to 7 hours. This tour is ideal if you want to escape the city and explore the impressive vineyards of the high-altitude region just north of Santa Fe.
Traveling in a luxury Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, your guide takes you along the High Road to Chimayó, making a quick stop at the Santuario de Chimayó, known for its spiritual significance. The tour then visits three wineries: La Chiripada Winery, the oldest vineyard in the region, and Vivac Winery, which is among the highest elevation vineyards in the U.S. Here, you’ll sample reds, whites, and seasonal bites. The last stop is Embudo Valley Vineyards, offering more tastings and beautiful scenery.
Reviewers appreciate the scenic landscape and high-quality wines, with one noting the “dramatic views and exceptional wines.” This is an excellent choice for wine aficionados who want to see something beyond Santa Fe’s urban scene, and the longer duration suits those seeking a luxurious, immersive experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who value scenic beauty and high-altitude wines, and don’t mind a full day on the road.
$299.00 per person
4. Downtown Santa Fe Walking Wine, History, & Tapas Tour
Last but not least, the Downtown Santa Fe Walking Wine, History, & Tapas Tour is a relaxed 3-hour stroll priced at $234. It’s hosted by Vigilante Guides and offers a more casual, accessible experience aimed at those who want to enjoy local wines and tapas while learning about Santa Fe’s stories.
Starting at Gruet Winery, famous for its sparkling wines, the tour moves through three stops, including Hervé Wine Bar and VARA Santa Fe Tasting Room. Each spot provides samples of New Mexican and Spanish wines, along with small bites. The guide emphasizes creating a fun, inclusive environment, making it suitable for wine newbies and aficionados alike.
Though reviews are limited, one mentions “great wines and local samples,” highlighting the casual, enjoyable nature of this tour. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer a laid-back experience with plenty of tastings and conversation.
Bottom Line: A friendly, informal way to enjoy Santa Fe’s wine scene without the formality of a dinner or long day trip.
How to Choose the Right Santa Fe Wine Tour
When deciding which wine tour suits you best, consider your budget, available time, and what kind of experience you prefer. If you want a casual, tasty overview, the Taste of Santa Fe Wine and Dine Lunch is a great choice. For a more elegant dining experience, the Savor Santa Fe dinner offers gourmet food and wine pairings. If scenic vineyard visits and a full day of exploration appeal, then the Northern New Mexico Wine Country trip is ideal. And for a fun, relaxed introduction to Santa Fe’s wine scene, the Downtown walking tour fits the bill.
Remember to book early during peak seasons, especially for full-day trips and popular dinner experiences, to secure your spot. Each tour offers a distinct way to enjoy Santa Fe’s wine culture—pick the one that best matches your travel style.
In sum, Santa Fe’s wine tours range from culinary walks and gourmet dinners to scenic vineyard excursions and casual tastings. Whether you’re after a relaxed afternoon or a full day’s adventure, there are options for every type of wine enthusiast. The key is to match your interests and schedule, so you can savor the best of New Mexico’s unique wine scene. Don’t forget to book early, and cheers to discovering Santa Fe one sip at a time!