From Ensenada: Ojos Negros Valley Cheese & Wine Tasting Tour

Planning a trip to Baja California and looking to add a flavor-filled experience? The Ojos Negros Valley Cheese & Wine Tasting Tour offers a unique way to explore the countryside, indulge your palate, and learn about local artisan products. It’s a six-hour journey that’s as much about the scenic drive as it is about tasting top-quality cheeses and wines. Whether you’re a foodie, a wine lover, or simply someone curious about the region’s artisanal crafts, this tour might just fit the bill.

What we love about this experience is the opportunity to visit a variety of spots—from a boutique winery to a lavender farm—each offering a glimpse into Baja’s diverse local production. The personalized guided tours, especially at Rancho La Campana, mean you’re not just tasting but also gaining insight into how these products are made. One thing to keep in mind is that some stops, like the lavender farm or Infinito Winery, depend on availability, so flexibility might be needed.

This tour is particularly suited for those who enjoy relaxed, informative outings with a focus on local flavors. It’s perfect if you want a taste of the countryside without the hassle of planning, but be prepared for a full day of moving around. It’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or needing wheelchair access, and you’ll want to have a moderate level of comfort with some walking and standing.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience: Visit a winery, cheese cellar, lavender farm, and enjoy a guided tour with tastings.
• Local flavor: Focused on artisan cheeses and high-quality wines, plus organic lavender products.
• Flexible stops: Some locations like the lavender farm or winery depend on availability, so plans can shift.
• Educational: Learn about cheese-making at Rancho La Campana and wine production from a dedicated winemaker.
• Scenic drive: The countryside landscape of Ojos Negros Valley offers beautiful views and photo opportunities.
• Inclusive amenities: Includes hotel pickup, round-trip transport, snacks, and admission fees—no hidden costs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Breakdown of the Experience

The Ojos Negros Valley Cheese & Wine Tasting Tour is a well-rounded offering for those wanting to combine scenic drives with genuine local tastings. Starting with your hotel pickup (or a designated meeting point if you’re staying outside the pickup zone), the journey east of Ensenada takes about an hour, winding through the lush landscape of Baja’s wine country.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Do

Your first stop is Infinito Winery, where you’ll be greeted by Pepe Pedrosa, the owner and winemaker. Though the tour of the vineyard and winery is subject to availability, if you get the chance, it’s a great way to see the vineyards up close and hear firsthand about the winemaking process. You’ll get an aperitif and wine tasting, which lets you sample some of Infinito’s best offerings. This part of the tour is especially appreciated for its personal touch—Pepe’s knowledge and friendly attitude make the experience stand out.

Next, the tour takes you to Rancho La Campana for the highlight: a guided visit to the cheese production area and an underground cellar at La Cava de Marcelo. Here, you’ll taste a variety of artisan cheeses paired with top-notch wines and other local craft products. The chance to see the cheese-making process and learn about the family that’s been producing dairy products since 1911 adds a layer of authenticity and history to the visit. The ambiance of the underground cellar creates an intimate tasting environment that many guests find memorable.

A key feature of this tour is the stop at Aleyha Lavender Farm, available only on certain days (Friday to Sunday). The lavender fields burst with color, providing a beautiful backdrop for photos and a peaceful walk. You can browse locally made lavender products in the farm’s shop, adding a tangible souvenir to your day. The scenery and unique focus on lavender give the tour a slightly different vibe, appealing to those who appreciate aromatic landscapes and organic farming.

Finally, the tour concludes with an optional meal at Grosso Restaurant, offering regional cuisine infused with lavender flavors. This is an extra, at your own expense, but a great way to cap off your day with a relaxed meal in a charming setting.

What You’ll Get: The Practical Details

The entire experience lasts about six hours, including travel time and visits. The tour operates rain or shine, so be prepared for the weather and dress comfortably with good shoes, sunglasses, and sun protection. The group sizes are private options or larger groups, depending on your booking, which influences the intimacy of the experience.

The price point of $107 per person covers most essentials—transportation, admission fees, guided tours, and tastings—making it quite reasonable considering the quality of the visits. Some tastings at Infinito Winery or the cheese cellar are not included, so you might want to budget extra if you’re eager to sample everything.

The Real-World Experience

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with one reviewer commenting on how the guide was patient and friendly. The views are often highlighted as stunning, especially at the lavender farm and during the scenic drive. The wine selection is well-judged, and the tasting at La Cava de Marcelo is a standout.

However, some stops like the lavender farm and winery are dependent on availability, which may mean your itinerary shifts slightly. That’s worth keeping in mind if you’re looking for a rigid schedule; flexibility is key here.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience works best for adults who enjoy learning about local artisan products, tasting wines and cheeses, and taking in scenic countryside views. It’s a relaxing way to connect with Baja’s lesser-known side without the hassle of organizing multiple visits yourself. It’s ideal if you appreciate guided commentary and small-group settings, but note that it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchairs, as some walking and uneven surfaces are involved.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded look at Baja’s countryside flavors, combining wine, cheese, and lavender into one memorable day. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want to experience authentic artisanal products without doing all the planning themselves. The guided visits, especially at Rancho La Campana, provide insight that elevates the tasting experience beyond just sipping wine or sampling cheese.

While some stops depend on availability, the overall vibe is warm, informative, and scenic. It’s great for those who enjoy a laid-back, immersive experience that gives a real taste of the region’s craftsmanship. The value for the price is solid, given the number of stops and the learning opportunities.

If you’re after a peaceful, flavor-focused outing that balances scenic views with meaningful local stories, this tour is worth considering. It’s particularly suited for wine and cheese lovers eager to explore Baja’s countryside, or anyone wanting a different perspective from the usual wine tasting tours.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 6 hours, including travel time and visits.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation and hotel pickup are included, making the experience easy to join without extra planning.

What stops are part of the tour?
The main stops are Infinito Winery, Rancho La Campana (cheese and craft tasting), Aleyha Lavender Farm (subject to availability), and a gourmet meal option at Grosso restaurant.

Are tastings included?
Tastings at Infinito Winery are not included but are available; the cheese and wine tasting at La Cava de Marcelo is included in the price.

Can I book this tour for a private group?
Yes, private group options are available, offering a more personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s designed for adults, especially since alcohol consumption is involved, and there’s no mention of kid-friendly activities.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, cash, and a photo ID to verify age for alcohol tasting.

What if it rains?
The tour operates rain or shine, so dress accordingly. Some outdoor stops may be less enjoyable if the weather isn’t cooperative.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to walking and uneven surfaces.

This tour strikes a nice balance between relaxation and discovery, and if you’re into tasting quality local products amid beautiful scenery, it’s a worthwhile addition to your Baja itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: