Discover the Charm of the Las Cruces/El Paso Weekend Wine Tour
Imagine spending a leisurely 5 hours exploring boutique wineries and breweries just south of the border, with round-trip transport from either Las Cruces or El Paso. For $60 a person, you get to sample a variety of wines and beers, enjoy a friendly guide, and soak in the scenic views of the Mesilla Valley AVA, one of America’s oldest wine-growing regions. This tour is perfect for those who love tasting local flavors, taking photos, or just relaxing while someone else does the driving.
Two things we particularly like about this experience are the flexibility of choosing your stops—because the tour offers options at each location—and the small group size, which keeps things intimate and personal. The tour includes live music, light snacks, and bottled water, making it a well-rounded outing. A possible consideration is that tasting fees are not included in the tour price, so you’ll want to budget around $5 to $20 per stop for tastings.
This tour suits wine and beer lovers eager to learn about the local scene without the stress of planning or driving. It’s especially good for travelers who appreciate authentic, family-owned wineries and want an experience that balances guided comfort with personal choice.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Flexible itinerary: Choose your own stops at three wineries and breweries.
- Authentic regional flavors: Explore family-owned and estate wineries in the oldest wine-growing region.
- All-inclusive comfort: Round-trip transport, a knowledgeable guide, bottled water, and snacks.
- Affordable tasting fees: Expect to pay $5 to $20 at each location for tastings.
- Small group experience: Limited to 14 participants for an intimate atmosphere.
- Ideal for casual wine lovers: No need to be a connoisseur—just a love for good drinks and relaxed fun.
Planning more time in Las Cruces New Mexico? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
A Closer Look at the Tour Experience
This tour offers an excellent blend of flexibility and guided comfort. After booking, you’ll meet your guide at a designated rendezvous point either in Las Cruces or El Paso—where the journey begins. From there, the small group (limited to 14 people) boards a comfortable vehicle, ready to explore three stops along Highway 28.
Each stop is either a winery or brewery, carefully selected to showcase the diverse flavors of the Mesilla Valley AVA. Popular choices include Zin Valle Vineyards, Mesa Vista Winery, La Vína Winery, Sombra Antigua Winery, Public House 28 Brewery, Rio Grande Winery, Spotted Dog Brewery, and NM Vintage Wines. With so many options, you’re encouraged to pick your favorites in advance or let your guide recommend based on your preferences.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to sample at family-owned wineries. These places often have a warm, welcoming feel, and their wines reflect a true sense of place and tradition. At each stop, you’ll get to enjoy tastings, live music, and plenty of photo opportunities. The light snacks and bottled water provided help keep you comfortable and hydrated—especially important if you plan to sample at multiple stops.
The timing of the tour is designed to fit into a 5-hour window, making it manageable whether you’re a morning person or prefer a relaxing afternoon. Expect to spend about an hour to an hour and a half at each spot, allowing enough time to chat with staff, explore the vineyards or brewing facilities, and indulge in your tastings.
What We Loved
One of the most appealing aspects of this experience is its personalized nature. You’re not just herded through a set itinerary; instead, you can select stops that suit your taste—whether you prefer wineries or breweries, it’s up to you. The small group setting ensures a more relaxed, friendly vibe, ideal for making new friends or simply enjoying a more personal experience.
Another highlight is the local flavor. The wineries and breweries are all family-owned or estate operations, giving you a rare chance to taste authentic regional offerings. Based on reviews, visitors have appreciated the recommendations from guides, describing the experience as “very entertaining” and “on point,” especially for those interested in the history and culture of the region.
A Possible Drawback
One thing to keep in mind is that drinks are not included in the price. While the $60 fee covers transportation, guide, and a friendly atmosphere, you’ll need to budget extra for your tastings—usually between $5 and $20 per stop. This means the total cost can vary depending on how many samples you want to try.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Will Love This Tour?
This experience is well-suited for relaxed travelers who want to explore local wine and beer scenes without the hassle of planning logistics. It’s perfect if you’re interested in small-scale, family-owned operations and enjoy the social aspect of tasting with others. The small group size makes it a good choice for those who prefer an intimate setting over large tours.
While not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users—since the tour doesn’t specify accommodations—most other casual visitors will find this a fun, low-key way to spend a few hours. It’s especially a good pick for food and drink enthusiasts who value authentic experiences over touristy gimmicks.
Final Thoughts
The Las Cruces/El Paso Weekend Wine Tour is a value-packed way to enjoy some of the best local wines and beers in the Mesilla Valley. For a reasonable price, you gain personalized choices, expert guidance, and a relaxed atmosphere that truly highlights the character of the region.
If you’re looking for a laid-back, authentic experience that combines great drinks with a scenic drive and lively socializing, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s ideal for casual wine and beer lovers who want to sample regional flavors without breaking the bank or stressing over arrangements.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a fun day out with friends, this tour offers a memorable taste of southern New Mexico’s vibrant beverage scene, all delivered with warmth and genuine hospitality.
FAQ
Who can participate in this tour?
It’s designed for adults who want to enjoy wine and beer tastings in a relaxed setting. Not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately 5 hours, including transportation, stops, and socializing.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking is recommended as the tour is limited to small groups (up to 14) and offers the flexibility to reserve and pay later.
Are tastings included in the price?
No, tastings are extra, typically ranging from $5 to $20 at each location. You should plan accordingly.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are advised for walking around wineries or breweries. Since drinks in the vehicle or smoking aren’t allowed, plan accordingly.
Can I customize my stops?
Yes, you can choose from the provided winery and brewery options, making it a personalized experience.