Old Wine Route Tour Experience at Baja California. ALL INCLUSIVE!

Exploring Baja California’s Old Wine Route: A Winemaking Journey

Imagine driving through sun-drenched valleys just south of Ensenada, where the air is filled with the aroma of grapes and history. The Old Wine Route Tour offers an intimate look into Baja California’s earliest vineyards, home to the region’s very first wineries and some of Mexico’s most acclaimed wines. For $207.80 per person, you’ll spend about six hours immersed in the charm of La Grulla, Santo Tomas de Aquino, and San Vicente Ferrer valleys, visiting two historic vineyards with expert tastings and delicious local snacks included.

What we love most about this tour: First, the chance to explore Bodegas de Santo Tomas, the oldest winery founded in 1888, with its fascinating round building nestled among the vines. Second, the opportunity to sample regional cheeses and ham alongside wines from Vinedos Aldo Cesar Palafox, adding a culinary layer that elevates the experience. The tour is well-paced, giving enough time at each stop to truly enjoy the wines and learn about their heritage.

A possible consideration for travelers: the tour involves private transportation and group sizes limited to 20, which works well for a small-group feel but might be less flexible if you prefer a more spontaneous or customizable schedule. Plus, the cost covers tastings and snacks, but any additional wine purchases or extra food are on you—something to keep in mind if you’re planning to take home bottles.

This experience suits those with a love of wine, history, and authentic regional flavor. If you’re curious about Baja’s pioneering vineyards with a relaxed, all-inclusive setup, this tour is perfect. It’s especially appealing if you want a taste of the past alongside top-quality wines and regional bites.

Key Points

• Historic focus: Visit Baja California’s oldest vineyard, Santo Tomas, founded in 1888.
• Inclusive experience: Tasting of 7 wines plus local snacks, with no hidden extra costs.
• Comfortable transport: Air-conditioned private vehicle and hotel pickup/drop-off in Ensenada.
• Authentic taste: Sample regional cheeses, ham, and local products alongside wine.
• Educational: Learn about the region’s wine pioneers and their craft.
• Limited group size: Enhances a personalized, relaxed atmosphere.

A Deep Dive into the Old Wine Route Tour

The Start: Convenient Pickup and a Scenic Drive

We appreciated the pickup from our hotel or Airbnb in Ensenada or Valle de Guadalupe, which meant no fuss about complicated meeting points. The air-conditioned vehicle was comfortable, and with a maximum of 20 travelers, the vibe was intimate enough to ask questions and get personalized attention. The drive through the countryside offers a glimpse of Baja’s rural charm, setting the stage for a day of wine discovery.

First Stop: Bodegas de Santo Tomas

Our first destination was the historic Bodegas de Santo Tomas. Founded in 1888, it’s a name that resonates with Baja California’s winemaking roots. We loved the way the tour included a 1-hour visit that not only allowed us to taste wines but also to step into a unique round building—a design by Alejandro D’Acosta—built in the middle of the vineyards. This structure isn’t just eye-catching; it’s a reminder of how long winemaking has been an integral part of the region.

The wines sampled here are considered pioneering—the first labels made in Baja. The tasting includes several Mexican lines, giving a broad view of the region’s winemaking style. As one reviewer—celebrating a milestone birthday—mentioned, the experience is truly memorable, especially for those wanting a taste of Baja’s early wine history.

Second Stop: Vinedos Aldo Cesar Palafox

The next part of the tour takes us to Vinedos Aldo Cesar Palafox, where we enjoyed a 1.5-hour experience. Here, the focus is on more accessible wines, accompanied by artisanal cheeses, Serrano ham, and regional products. The tasting of four wines from the Basic line provides a lovely contrast to the historic Santo Tomas wines, showcasing the diversity of Baja’s wine offerings.

The inclusion of local snacks was a highlight—one reviewer noted how the cheeses and ham added flavor and context to the tasting experience, making it feel like a true regional feast rather than just a wine tasting. This stop is perfect for those wanting a relaxed, flavorful experience that combines wine and local gastronomy.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers excellent value for the price. Besides the tastings, you receive bottled water, and the tour provides snacks—artisanal cheeses, ham, and local products. The admission tickets to both vineyards are included, making it straightforward and hassle-free.

However, it’s worth noting that additional food or beverages aren’t part of the package, and any wines or souvenirs you wish to purchase are extra. Tips are also not included, but the knowledgeable guides and the all-inclusive setup generally encourage generous gratuities.

The Style of the Tour

The tour’s pacing is well thought out, giving enough time to savor each wine and absorb the stories behind them. The small group size encourages a friendly, informal atmosphere, ideal for curious travelers who like to ask questions and learn. The local guides are friendly and well-informed—one reviewer mentioned that their guide made the experience memorable, sharing insights about the region’s history and winemaking craft.

Authenticity and Educational Value

This isn’t just a tasting; it’s a mini-history lesson. We loved the way the stops told stories of Baja’s pioneering winemakers and how each vineyard reflects a piece of regional identity. You’ll learn about how and why Baja California became Mexico’s premier wine-producing region, which adds depth to the tasting experience.

Potential Drawbacks

While the experience hits the mark for many, some travelers might find the cost a bit high if they’re only mildly interested in wine, especially since additional wine purchases aren’t included. Also, if you’re seeking a more flexible or spontaneous schedule, this pre-arranged, 6-hour tour might feel somewhat structured.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you enjoy history, good wines, and regional flavors, this tour will satisfy. It’s especially suited for those who prefer an all-inclusive setup with minimal planning, or travelers new to Baja’s wines who want a thorough introduction. Those looking for a relaxed pace and small-group intimacy will find this tour a perfect fit.

Final thoughts

This Old Wine Route Tour offers a thoughtful, well-organized way to explore Baja California’s historic vineyards, with a focus on quality tastings and regional stories. It’s a well-rounded experience that balances educational insights with delicious food and wine, set against the scenic backdrop of Baja’s sunny valleys.

The value isn’t just in the tastings—it’s in the chance to connect with the region’s past, savor top-tier wines, and enjoy a comfortable, small-group atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious traveler, this tour provides an authentic taste of Baja’s pioneering spirit.

If you’re looking for an experience that combines history, regional flavors, and scenic beauty in a relaxed setting, this is a solid choice. It’s best for those who want a guided, all-inclusive day that highlights Baja’s winemaking legacy with plenty of opportunities to savor and learn.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel or Airbnb pickup and drop-off in Ensenada or Valle de Guadalupe at no extra charge.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, including transport, tastings, and snacks.

What’s the price?
It costs $207.80 per person, which covers the transport, visits, tastings, and snacks.

Are the wine tastings included?
Yes, you will taste 3 wines at Vinedos Aldo Cesar Palafox and 4 wines at Bodegas de Santo Tomas as part of the price.

Can I buy wine during the tour?
Yes, wines and other beverages are available for purchase, but they are not included in the tour price.

What type of vehicle is used?
A private, air-conditioned vehicle is used for transportation, ensuring comfort during the drive.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
While primarily a wine tasting experience, children or non-drinkers can participate in the sightseeing and enjoy the scenic drives and snacks.

How many people can join?
The tour group is limited to 20 travelers, creating a cozy, personalized experience.

Is it a full-day experience?
No, it’s about 6 hours, making it a manageable half-day excursion.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, your curiosity, and an appreciation for good wine and regional flavors.

This detailed review should help you decide if the Old Wine Route Tour meets your expectations for exploring Baja California’s historic vineyards. It’s a blend of history, tasting, and scenic charm—perfect for those wanting a genuine taste of the region’s winemaking roots.