While it might be surprising to think that the High Desert of Northern New Mexico has wineries you can visit, in all actuality, New Mexico has a long history of vineyards, extending back to 1629, when a Franciscan Friar and a Capuchin Monk planted the first wine grapes in America. Prior to that time, the Spanish Government had barred the export of any wine grapes, but in 1629, in order to obtain wine for church services, the first vineyard in America was founded in the Rio Grande Valley. https://www.newmexico.org/blog/post/a-journey-through-the-ages-the-fascinating-history-of-wine-in-new-mexico/
New Mexico continues to manufacture excellent unique wines to this day, with several wineries located here in the area near Taos, where you can go for tastings, to buy wine to take home as a memory of your time here, or to listen to local musicians while watching the spectacular sunsets of the High Desert. A cluster of wineries is located 25 miles south of Taos, along the famous “Low Road to Taos” which runs along the bottom of a valley adjacent to the Rio Grande River.
Taos Wineries
Vivac Winery: The Vivac Winery is located at 2075 NM Route 68 in Dixon, NM. This winery, located at 6,000 feet above sea level, is one of the highest altitude wineries in the world. Not only do they have a tasting room and numerous New Mexico wines, but this is also a perfect place to spend a weekend afternoon or evening, relaxing in their outdoor seating area among the grapevines while listening to local musicians play. This is a wonderful place for a romantic evening watching the beauty of Northern New Mexico as you sip your wine and talk with friends. https://vivacwinery.com/
La Chiripada Winery: Located only a mile from Vivac at HIghway 75 Rd 1119 #8, Dixon, NM 87527, this is the oldest continuously operating winery in New Mexico. This winery (also one of the highest altitude wineries in the world) has won numerous awards for its wines and has been selected as the Best Winery in New Mexico on numerous occasions. Stop in for a tasting in their adobe building, and enjoy some of their award-winning Special Reserve Riesling, or Rio Embudo Red Reserve wines. https://lachiripada.com/home/
Black Mesa Winery: This winery is located about 1 mile south of Vivac, on the Low Road to Taos, and is a great place to stop when exploring the Rio Grande Valley. In addition to the modern Tasting room, you will find 1000-year-old petroglyphs behind the main building, along with a Meditative Labyrinth you may wander through while listening to the nearby Rio Grande River. https://www.blackmesawinery.com/
Taos Breweries
Taos Mesa Brewing- The Mothership: Located just outside Taos, you will travel over the Rio Grande Bridge (one of the highest in the United States) on your way to their main location on the Mesa, surrounded by the sights of the High Desert Mesa, as well as the mountains of Northern New Mexico. This Brewery is the largest in Northern New Mexico and is known not only for their numerous on tap beers and ciders but also for the numerous groups and bands they bring in almost every night. If you are looking for great acts, such as Trombone Shorty, or Grace Kelly, this is a great place to go. The outdoor area is a great place to meet and talk with new friends, as you enjoy the campfires they have to keep you warm on those chilly desert nights. http://www.taosmesabrewing.com/
Taos Mesa Brewing- The Taos Taproom: Rather stay in town to have some drinks, listen to some music, or watch the game? This is a great choice for you then. Opened a few years ago, this satellite to “The Mothership” listed above, this has become a popular location for locals and tourists alike. In addition to the numerous beers and ciders on Tap, try one of the wood-fired pizzas or other light fare while enjoying the unique ambiance of this location. http://www.taosmesabrewing.com/
Red River Brewery Company and Distillery: Located north of Taos in the quaint Alpine village of Red River, this brewery has been selected as the best Brewery in New Mexico. In a large building along the main street in Red River, this is a great stop along the Enchanted Circle Diver to have a drink and lunch while surrounded by the mountains and the Red River Ski Resort. After a stop for lunch at the Brewery, wander the small shops along with this beautiful small town. https://redriverbrewing.com/
Interested in more local breweries or wineries? Feel free to contact us at the Dreamcatcher Bed and Breakfast at any time and we would be happy to provide you more recommendations for additional locations to explore while you are in the Taos area!
