Wine and cheese… what more could you ask for?!
If y’all have been following the blog and social media, you know by now that I absolutely LOVE wine tasting across the world. The tradition of winemaking and learning from the people who make it is a REALLY cool way to discover a new place!
And my travels have taken me to hundreds of wineries in the USA, to tasting the original Zinfandel on Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast, to Slovakia’s wine country, to savoring the delectable Vinsanto borne of Santorini’s volcanic ash soil…
…so when I discovered last year that Mexico had an “other” wine country (second to Baja California, Mexico’s biggest wine-producing region) — I knew I would be visiting the area — and its multiple wineries and vineyards — more than once!
Welcome to Tequisquiapan, and the Queso y Vino Ruta
The town of Tequisquiapan is pretty much ground zero for Querétaro wine production, and the area has gained prominence in recent years — the region boasts ideal conditions for grape cultivation. It has a semi-arid climate with warm days and cool nights, an altitude ranging from 1,800 to 2,200 feet, and fertile soil, oh my!
Here’s a little bit about the wine commonly grown in this area of Mexico:
- Sauvignon Blanc produced in Tequisquiapan often exhibits a fresh and vibrant character.
- Chardonnay grapes thrive in the region, resulting in elegant and well-balanced wines, and Tequisquiapan’s Chardonnays can exhibit a range of flavors from tropical fruits to vanilla and buttery notes, depending on the winemaking style.
- Cabernet Sauvignon is well-suited to the region’s terroir. Tequisquiapan’s cab wines often showcase ripe black fruit flavors, structured tannins, and a hint of spice.
- Merlot is another red grape variety grown in the area, producing wines with soft tannins, medium body, and flavors of plums, berries, and herbs.
- Tempranillo, Spain’s most famous red grape variety, also thrives: Tequisquiapan’s Tempranillo wines can display flavors of red berries, spice, and leather, with a medium to full-bodied profile.
The town is about a four hours’ drive from Mexico City and an hour from the city of Querétaro, making it the perfect weekend getaway! Here are a couple of my favorite (dog-friendly) spots.
POP THE BUBBLY: Freixenet Mexico
Freixenet Mexico specializes in producing sparkling wines, particularly those made using the traditional method (méthode champenoise), which is the same method used in Champagne production. The winery utilizes modern winemaking techniques and state-of-the-art facilities to ensure the production of high-quality (and delicious) sparkling wines. And yes, it’s part of THAT Freixenet Group — the renowned Spanish winemaking company that has been producing sparkling wines for more than 150 years!
In the town of Tequis, Freixenet has a dog-friendly tasting room and terraza, where a number of sparkling wines are available by the bottle. The Freixenet winery and production site is located a little ways outside of town, and visitors are welcome to explore its vineyards and below-ground wine cellar through guided tours — but be sure to inquire after the English-speaking tour as there are only a few offered per day. Also, while the winery grounds are dog-friendly, the tour is not. Did you know, it’s one of the most-visited wineries in the world!?
I loved the dry brut and the semi-dry brut rosé — so light and lovely.
WINE AND DINE: Viñedo La Revuelta
Viñedo La Revuelta, a 15-minute drive (with a particularly rocky driveway) from the town of Tequis, offers a 7 course tasting menu and wine pairing… and what an indulgence it was!
First, we were welcomed with a refreshing wine cocktail, while the humble and welcoming host showed us around the family-run vineyard, introducing us to the Merlot and Cab grapes. Then, we gathered inside for wine pairings with each course: sparkling white wine with a chicken mole taco, blush wine with a tuna tostada, and red with a miniature lamb burger (and a few more delicious bites!). My favorite wines were the espumoso Brut and the flavorful Reserva Merlot.
AFTERNOON DELIGHTS: Viñedos Azteca and Viñedos La Redonda
Did you know, the Spanish word for “taste” is degustación? Now you do! For great wines AND great ambiance (oh, and don’t forget about the cheese — all the cheese), I really enjoyed my stops at Viñedos Azteca and Viñedos La Redonda. I recommend both for a wine- and fresh-air fueled afternoon!
And get this: I actually did try to visit a couple other wineries that turned out NOT to be dog-friendly… so I definitely appreciate being able to have my furry friend along for the ride.
QUESO, QUESO Y MÁS QUESO: Flor de Alfalfa
Cheese is at the forefront when visiting dairy farm Flor de Alfalfa! The food is amazing (the pizza, mmmm), the green grass for playing fetch plentiful, and while they don’t produce wine, wine is available for tasting and purchase from a neighboring vineyard.
When to go to Tequisquiapan
The town hosts various festivals throughout the year that showcase its cultural heritage. One of the most significant events is the “Feria Nacional del Queso y Vino” (National Cheese and Wine Fair), which takes place in May and June. (I went — and what a festive and fun time!!)
Other festivals include the “Festival del Globo” (Balloon Festival) in November, where colorful hot air balloons fill the sky, and the “Fiesta de la Vendimia” (Harvest Festival) in August, which celebrates the grape harvest with traditional dances, music, and grape stomping.
Dog-friendly places to stay in Tequisquiapan
In town: Hotel del Parque
In wine country: Hotel Boutique Casa Diamante
In Bernal: Hotel Peña Florencia
Tequisquiapan is a delightful destination for those seeking a blend of colonial charm, artisanal crafts, Mexican wine and food, and a relaxing atmosphere. I’ll definitely be back… maybe for the Harvest Festival (I’ve always wanted to stomp grapes)! For help planning your trip to Mexico or beyond, learn about my travel coaching offering. Buen viajes, amigos! ❤️
Looks delicious! Especially Flor de Alfalfa. You’re making me want some wine and cheese right now… (even though I just ate breakfast, LOL).