Santa Fe Day trip to Northern New Mexico Wine Country

If you’re dreaming of a relaxing day surrounded by beautiful landscapes, good wine, and some local flavor, this Santa Fe wine tour might be just what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve researched it thoroughly and spoken to travelers who have, and it sounds like a lovely way to explore northern New Mexico’s unique wine scene.

What really stands out are the scenic drives along the High Road to Chimayó, which offers spectacular views, and the chance to taste wines from some of the highest elevation vineyards in the U.S.. Plus, the small-group size and a knowledgeable guide make it feel personalized and engaging.

Of course, no experience is perfect. One thing to keep in mind is that the tour lasts about 6 to 7 hours, so it’s a full day. If you’re not a huge wine drinker or prefer more structured activities, this may not be your ideal choice. But if you love scenic drives, tasting new wines, and soaking in local culture, it’s worth considering. This tour suits those who want an immersive, relaxed experience that combines views, flavor, and a bit of New Mexico’s charm.

Key Points

• Scenic Route: The High Road to Chimayó provides stunning landscapes and a taste of local culture.
• Wine Varieties: Tasting at three high-altitude vineyards offers a chance to enjoy unique wines you might not find elsewhere.
• Cultural Touch: A quick stop at the Santuario de Chimayó adds a spiritual and historic element.
• Comfort and Convenience: Traveling in a luxury Mercedes-Benz Sprinter with a knowledgeable guide makes the day smooth and enjoyable.
• Food and Snacks: Small bites and local flavors complement the wine tastings, adding a tasty dimension.
• Small Group: With a maximum of 13 travelers, it feels intimate and personalized, not rushed.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting at La Fonda on the Plaza

Your day begins at La Fonda on the Plaza, right in the heart of Santa Fe. This central starting point is convenient, especially if you’re staying nearby. From here, the journey kicks off with a scenic drive along the High Road to Chimayó—a route famed for its stunning vistas, colorful landscapes, and cultural sights.

Stop 1: Santuario De Chimayó

Your first stop is the Santuario de Chimayó, a place that’s both beautiful and spiritually significant. It’s a quick 30-minute visit with free admission, so you can soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed. This stop is more about experiencing the land and history of northern New Mexico rather than tasting wine, but it’s a meaningful way to start the day, connecting you with local traditions.

Stop 2: La Chiripada Winery

Next, you’ll visit La Chiripada Winery, the oldest continuously operated winery and vineyard in the region. Here, you’ll enjoy 45 minutes of tasting both reds and whites, gaining insight into the region’s winemaking legacy. The fact that it’s the oldest winery adds a layer of authenticity—you’re tasting wines crafted with generations of experience.

Stop 3: Vivac Winery

Your third stop is at Vivac Winery, which is noteworthy for being one of the highest elevation vineyards in the U.S. This means the grapes grow in cooler, more dramatic conditions, often resulting in more nuanced wines. Here, you’ll indulge in a tasting of various wines, paired with snacks and small bites, plus an option for beer if you prefer. The scenery here is likely to be stunning, with panoramic views that make the tasting even more memorable.

Stop 4: Embudo Valley Vineyards

The final stop is at Embudo Valley Vineyards, where you’ll enjoy more reds and whites. At this point, you’ll have had the chance to sample a variety of flavors, all while taking in the beautiful vineyard surroundings. This last tasting rounds out a day of flavorful exploration and scenic beauty.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The included features cover all the wine tastings and snacks, making the experience straightforward and stress-free. You can relax and focus on enjoying the wines and the landscape without worrying about extra costs.

However, gratuities are not included, so if you feel the guide or driver did a good job, tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. The tour costs $299 per person, which might seem like a fair price considering the visits, tastings, snacks, and the luxury transportation, but it’s worth considering if you’re a serious wine enthusiast or just looking for a scenic escape.

The Travel Experience: Comfort and Group Size

Traveling in a luxury Mercedes-Benz Sprinter adds a touch of comfort and style to your day. The small-group setting (max 13 travelers) means fewer crowds and more personalized attention, which is a big plus for many travelers. The route is designed to be leisurely, with plenty of time at each stop to savor the wines and take photos.

Timing and Duration

Expect the tour to last around 6 to 7 hours, making it a full-day commitment. The timing allows for a relaxed pace, so you aren’t rushed between stops, and you get to soak in the scenery and culture along the way.

Authentic Traveler Insights

One traveler’s review highlighted how well the day was managed: “We had a fabulous time. Our guide, Jerard, was terrific. It is his family company, and he was extremely interested in making sure we had a memorable and enjoyable day.” This personal touch, along with the leisurely pace and the three winery visits, seem to be the tour’s strengths.

Another review emphasized the scenic views and delicious food: “Each winery was leisurely, with snacks or food, and the wines were varied and enjoyable.” Many appreciated the curated tastings and the chance to learn about the land and wines from a knowledgeable guide.

Evaluating the Value

At $299, this tour offers a lot of value, especially given the inclusion of tastings and snacks, plus the comfortable transport and small-group setting. For those interested in wine, scenery, and local culture, this experience makes exploring northern New Mexico’s high-altitude vineyards both accessible and enjoyable without the hassle of planning individual visits.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience caters well to wine lovers, nature enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a relaxed day soaking in New Mexico’s unique landscape. It’s ideal if you prefer guided, all-inclusive tours and enjoy small groups where you can ask questions and engage with your guide. It’s also suitable for travelers looking for a cultural and scenic outing that’s more laid-back than active.

Final Thoughts

This Santa Fe day trip to northern New Mexico’s wine country is a thoughtfully curated experience that balances scenic drives, cultural sights, and wine tasting all in one package. The stops at historic vineyards and high-altitude wineries provide a distinctive taste of the region. You’ll love the views, the wines, and the personal touch from your guide, which truly makes it stand out.

It’s especially well-suited for those who want an easy, well-organized day that combines relaxation with flavor and scenery. Just keep in mind that it’s a full day, so come prepared for a leisurely, immersive experience rather than a quick tasting tour.

If you’re craving a peaceful escape with exceptional wines and stunning landscapes, this tour could very well be your highlight in Santa Fe.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners or casual wine drinkers?
Yes, the tour is designed to be relaxed and enjoyable, and it’s a good way to sample wines from different vineyards without any pressure. It’s great for anyone interested in wine, whether you’re a novice or a seasoned enthusiast.

How many wineries do we visit?
You’ll visit three wineries: La Chiripada Winery, Vivac Winery, and Embudo Valley Vineyards. Each offers a different experience and wine selection, giving you a well-rounded tasting day.

What is the transportation like?
The tour travels in a luxury Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, which provides comfortable seating and climate control. It’s a small-group setting, so you won’t be crowded, and the ride is smooth and scenic.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, including stops and tasting time. It’s a full-day activity but designed to be leisurely.

Are meals included?
Snacks and small bites are included at the vineyards, and these are paired with the wines. There are also seasonal bites, and you can expect some local flavors to be highlighted.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, a hat or sunglasses for sun protection, and perhaps a small bag for souvenirs or extra snacks. The guide will likely give you some tips, especially if you want to take photos.

Is the tour family-friendly?
The data doesn’t specify, but since the experience involves wine tastings and is geared toward adults, it’s probably best suited for travelers 21 and over.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, which offers some flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

If you’re in Santa Fe and looking to combine scenic beauty with some top-notch local wines, this day trip could be a real treat. It balances comfort, culture, and flavor in a way that makes for a memorable outing—especially if you enjoy a relaxed pace and stunning landscapes.