Bodegas de Santo Tomás S,A. de C.V.

Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Baja California’s oldest winery, where history and tradition intertwine in every glass. Santo Tomás Winery, founded in 1888 in the heart of Ensenada, is a living monument to winemaking and an officially recognized regional cultural heritage site. Originally established by Dominican monks to produce sacramental wine, it has evolved into one of the country's most decorated wine producers.

Today, in this part of Mexico, the winery offers a unique wine experience, producing around 40 different labels, including wines from century-old vineyards. It has been a pioneer in many fields, such as being the first in the country to appoint a woman as head enologist. The historic complex in the Miramar district draws visitors with its authentic cellars and elegant architecture reflecting the spirit of the colonial era.

Visitors appreciate Santo Tomás for its high-quality products and welcoming atmosphere. Thanks to the influence of the Pacific Ocean, the climate here is ideal for grape growing, giving the drinks a distinct and recognizable character. It is not just a production facility, but a true cultural hub bringing together lovers of history, art, and gastronomy.

To clarify visit details, book group tours, or arrange private tastings, it is recommended to contact the administration in advance. You can call the provided number or visit the official website to view current offers and seasonal events.

The main reason to visit this historic site is a tour of the legendary underground cellars. Here, you can see how fine wines are aged and learn the nuances of the winemaking process, from harvest to bottling. Experienced guides will share insights into the local soil characteristics and how the proximity to the ocean creates the unique bouquet of Santo Tomás wines.

A tasting session is a must-do part of the program. Guests are invited to sample wines from vines up to 90 years old and taste locally produced natural olive oil. In the winery's cozy halls, you can enjoy snacks made from local ingredients that perfectly complement the premium varieties.

For those seeking a deeper experience, masterclasses with winemakers and walks through picturesque vineyards with panoramic views are available. This is a wonderful opportunity to take stunning photos against the backdrop of historic buildings or purchase rare wine varieties in the brand store that are hard to find outside the region.

Finding the winery is quite simple: it is located at Av. Miramar 666, in the heart of the city's historic district. If you are already downtown, you can walk to the historic cellar while enjoying the atmosphere of the Mexican streets, or take a local taxi.

For travelers arriving from Tijuana or San Diego, it is most convenient to drive along the scenic 1D (Escénica) highway, which takes about an hour and a half to two hours. On-site parking is available, though many tourists prefer organized tours with transfers to fully immerse themselves in the tasting experience without worrying about the drive.

For those choosing public transport, there are regular bus services to Ensenada from major cities in the region. Upon arrival at the bus station, you can take a taxi to the Zona Centro. Car rental remains a recommended option for those planning to explore other wine valleys in Baja California as well.

The history of this site dates back to 1791 when Dominican monks from the Santo Tomás de Aquino mission planted the first vines here. Initially, wine was produced exclusively for religious rites, but these vineyards laid the foundation for the entire Baja California winemaking industry. The "Misión" grape variety brought by the monks is still considered a vital part of the region's heritage.

In 1888, as Ensenada was just gaining status as an important city, Francisco Andonegui and Miguel Ormart founded the first commercial winery here. They kept the historic name in honor of the Dominican mission. Over time, the modest production grew into a wine giant, and the group of ancient cellars was officially declared the state's first cultural heritage site in 2001.

Santo Tomás Winery is also known for its pioneering spirit. In 2005, Laura Zamora became its head enologist—the first woman to hold such a position in Mexico. Under her leadership, the wines earned over 220 international awards. Today, the tradition is continued by Cristina Pino, who implements modern organic methods and sustainability principles while maintaining respect for vines that are over a hundred years old.

Typically, tourists need about 2–3 hours to leisurely explore the historic cellars, participate in a tour, and enjoy a tasting set. This is enough time to learn about the brand’s history and sample the main wine varieties in a cozy atmosphere.

If you plan to combine your visit with a full lunch at one of the local restaurants or want to take a walk through the vineyards themselves in Valle de Guadalupe, you should set aside at least 4–5 hours. Total immersion in the region's gastronomic culture requires a relaxed pace.

The winery operates on a standard weekday schedule, allowing tourists to easily plan their visit during the work week. The doors are open to visitors from Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Please note that on weekends—Saturday and Sunday—the winery is closed to visitors. It is recommended to arrive in the first half of the day to ensure you have enough time for a full tour before closing.

A stroll around the winery's surroundings will allow you to dive deeper into the city's cultural life and discover its maritime heritage. Its location in the historic center makes it an ideal starting point for exploring local attractions on foot.