Ensenada Shore Excursion: Wine and Cheese Tour with Lunch in Ojos Negros Valley

Exploring the Ensenada Wine and Cheese Tour with Lunch in Ojos Negros Valley

If you’re cruising into Ensenada and considering a half-day adventure that combines local flavors with scenic views, the Wine and Cheese Tour in Ojos Negros Valley might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve looked into what it offers and what travelers are saying, so I can give you a solid picture of whether it’s worth your time.

What I really appreciate about this experience is the focus on small, family-owned wineries and cheese makers—places that tend to be more authentic and less commercialized, which makes for a more genuine tasting experience. Also, the all-inclusive nature—tastings, lunch, and transportation—means you won’t have to worry about extra costs or logistics once you’re there. That said, one thing to consider is the drive time: about 40 minutes each way. If you’re expecting a super relaxed, leisurely morning, this might feel a little rushed.

This tour seems best suited for those who enjoy wine and food pairing, appreciate scenic vineyard visits, and want a taste of Baja’s local producers without straying too far from Ensenada’s port. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a well-organized, private group experience that combines education with indulgence.

Key Points

• Authentic experience at small family-run wineries and cheese producers
• Includes all tastings, a delicious local lunch, and transportation from the cruise port
• A good mix of wine, cheese, and scenic countryside in Baja California
• Some reviewers mention the drive is a bit long, but worth it for the quality and intimacy
• Not a crowded tour — private transport means a more relaxed pace
• Decent value given the inclusions and personalized service

What to Expect from the Ensenada Wine and Cheese Tour

This tour is a straightforward but satisfying way to explore Baja California’s wine and cheese scene, especially if you’re a foodie or wine enthusiast. Right from the start, it offers a private, air-conditioned vehicle and a host who makes sure your experience is smooth and personalized. The tour is designed to last about 5 hours, which is plenty of time to enjoy tasting, learning, and eating without feeling rushed.

The Journey Begins: Pickup and Drive to San Rafael Winery

Once your cruise ship docks in Ensenada, your guide will pick you up and whisk you about 40 minutes northwest to the San Rafael winery in San Rafael Valley, in the Ojos Negros region. This part of Baja is known for its quiet, rolling hills and agricultural charm, and the drive itself sets a relaxed tone.

The San Rafael winery is often described as one of the first vineyards in the region, which adds a bit of historical weight to the visit. Here, you’ll get an explanation of the wine-making process, which is particularly interesting if you’re curious about how Baja wines compare to more well-known regions like Napa. You’ll taste three different wines—a highlight for many visitors who appreciate the chance to sample locally made wines in a peaceful setting.

What Makes San Rafael Winery Special?

Many reviews highlight the quality of the wine and the friendliness of the staff. One traveler mentioned, “The wine was spectacular and the vineyards beautiful and isolated,” which captures the vibe here. It’s a small, family-owned operation, meaning the experience feels intimate, and you’re likely to get better answers to your questions than in big commercial wineries.

Visit to Cava de Quesos: Cheese Making & Tasting

From the winery, your next stop is the Cava de Quesos at Rancho Ramonetti. This part of the tour is all about cheese—a surprisingly interesting aspect that many visitors enjoy. You’ll take a walking tour of the ranch, where cheeses have been crafted for four generations.

What makes this stop engaging is the underground cheese cellar, where cheeses are aged for up to five years. You get to taste six different cheeses, paired with artisan bread, fresh fruits, and olive oil. It’s like a mini cheese course, but what really stood out in reviews was how unique and flavorful the cheeses were, and how the guide explained the process in a way that added depth to the tasting. One reviewer said, “The cheese cave was something like we’d never seen before.”

Lunch with Local Flavors and a Glass of Wine

After the cheese tasting, it’s time for lunch at the ranch’s cozy restaurant. The menu features local dishes, with cheese playing a starring role. You’ll enjoy your meal alongside a glass of wine—a perfect way to kick back and reflect on the morning.

Many guests report that the lunch was satisfying, with a good balance of flavors and quality ingredients. It’s not haute cuisine but genuinely tasty and worth the experience if you’re hungry after all the tastings.

Returning to Ensenada and the End of Your Day

Once lunch wraps up, your guide will take you back to the port, completing the loop in about five hours. The timing feels just right for most travelers—enough to enjoy the sights and flavors without feeling like you’re hanging around too long.

What Do the Reviews Say?

The feedback is generally positive, with an average rating of 4.0 out of 5 from 9 reviews. Many travelers rave about the knowledgeable guides and the beautiful vineyard views. One reviewer remarked, “The wine tasting was so good and we really enjoyed the cheese cave tasting and lunch as well. Very unique and fun excursion.”

However, not all reviews are glowing. A few guests found the experience a bit dull or poorly organized, citing issues like monotonous guides or difficulty in locating the meeting point. For example, one person said, “We could not find our guide! The directions were tough,” but the tour provider responded by providing clearer instructions afterward.

The drive time is a common topic—some say it’s over an hour to the first stop, which can be a downside if you prefer a more leisurely pace. Still, many agree that the quality of the tastings and the personal touch make up for the longer drive.

Practical Details and Value

At $235 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option available, but when you consider that it includes all tastings, a full lunch, private transportation, and port pickup/drop-off, it’s pretty competitive. The private guide and vehicle mean you’re not stuck in a large group, and the experience can be tailored to your interests.

The fact that it’s a private tour also adds a layer of flexibility—you can ask questions, linger longer if you want, or tailor the experience slightly, depending on your guide’s flexibility.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys wine and cheese, appreciates scenic drives, and prefers a more intimate, private experience rather than a big tour, this excursion could be a good fit. It’s especially suited for foodies or wine lovers who want to learn about Baja’s local producers in a relaxed setting.

However, if you’re looking for a quick, high-energy activity or prefer a more structured, guided tour with lots of activities bundled together, you might find this a little slow or less dynamic than other options.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes private pickup and drop-off at the Ensenada cruise port, with transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

How long does the entire tour last?
It’s approximately 5 hours from pickup to drop-off, giving you a good balance of activity and relaxation.

Are the tastings and lunch included in the price?
Absolutely. All tastings, the cheese and wine experience, and the lunch with wine are part of the package.

Can I customize the experience?
Since it’s a private tour, you might be able to ask your guide for small adjustments, but the core itinerary is set.

What if I’m not a big wine or cheese fan?
While the tour focuses on wine and cheese, if you’re interested in learning about local artisanal products and scenic countryside, you may still enjoy the overall experience.

Is this suitable for families or children?
The tour is designed for adults who enjoy food and wine. It’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, but older kids with an interest in food might find it enjoyable.

What’s the best part of this tour?
Many say the personalized attention, the quality of tastings, and the beautiful rural scenery make it special.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, multiple reviews mention the guides are friendly and informative, enhancing the overall experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for walking and a hat or sunscreen, as you’ll be outdoors at the vineyard and cheese farm.

Final Thoughts

This Wine and Cheese Tour in Ojos Negros Valley offers a relaxed, intimate peek into Baja California’s wine and cheese traditions. It’s perfect for those who enjoy local flavors and want a more personalized, less commercial experience. While the drive can feel a bit long, the quality of tastings and the lovely scenery make it a worthwhile journey for many.

If you’re after a calm, informative, and tasty experience with a touch of rural Baja charm, this tour could very well suit your cruise day plans. It’s a good choice for foodies, wine lovers, and travelers seeking a taste of local craftsmanship away from crowds.

Hope this helps you decide if this tour is right for your Baja adventure. Safe travels and enjoy every sip and bite!