Casa Rondeña Winery

Casa Rondeña Winery is a true Mediterranean oasis nestled in the picturesque Los Ranchos de Albuquerque area. Founded in 1995, this family-owned enterprise in the USA has become more than just a place for wine production; it is a cultural center where winemaking, music, and architecture harmoniously intertwine.

The architecture of the winery is inspired by its creator's love for Spain. Guests are welcomed by elegant Spanish-style buildings, cozy courtyards, and the famous Tricentennial bell tower. The atmosphere of serenity and sophistication makes this one of the most beautiful and visited attractions in the state of New Mexico.

Today, the Casa Rondeña complex includes a stylish tasting room, a modern winery, and a magnificent rotunda. The winery is famous for its premium wines, such as Meritage and 1629, as well as regular concerts and cultural events that turn a standard tasting into a true aesthetic pleasure.

To plan your visit to Casa Rondeña Winery, you can use the following contact information. The staff is always ready to answer questions about private events or group tours of the estate.

The main reason to visit Casa Rondeña is to experience local winemaking traditions. In the cozy tasting room, you can order tasting flights of award-winning wines. Special attention should be given to the flagship varieties, for which the winery has repeatedly received prestigious awards. For those who prefer non-wine beverages, local craft beers are also available.

Be sure to set aside time for a leisurely stroll around the grounds. You can walk along the neat rows of vineyards with a glass of wine in hand, relax by the fountains, or admire the reflection of the cottonwood trees in the local pond. On Saturdays, special themed tours are held, where you can learn more about the history of the region and the intricacies of the winemaking process.

The winery is known for its hospitable and family-friendly atmosphere—people often come here with children to enjoy the beautiful views. Additionally, Casa Rondeña is a popular venue for weddings and private events, so you might witness a celebration or simply enjoy the architectural elegance of the event spaces.

Reaching this secluded spot is quite simple. Casa Rondeña Winery is located just a few miles from the center of Albuquerque, in the scenic Rio Grande Valley area. A taxi or car ride from the city center takes about 15–20 minutes.

The path to the winery itself follows a quiet road that turns into a dirt track, leading directly through rows of lush vineyards. This creates the feeling that you are leaving the bustling city behind and entering a peaceful oasis. For precise navigation, it is recommended to use GPS coordinates or the address 733 Chavez Rd NW, as the complex is tucked away behind leafy trees.

Public transportation in this area is limited, so the most convenient way to visit remains a personal vehicle or taxi services. The entrance to the grounds is beautifully designed, immediately setting the tone for a calm and pleasant getaway from the urban hustle and bustle.

The history of this place began in 1990 when John Calvin, along with his sons, planted the first vines in the Rio Grande Valley. Casa Rondeña Winery was officially founded in 1995 as a family business. The name Rondeña refers to Andalusia, Spain, where the founder studied the art of flamenco in his youth. It was this Spanish philosophy—uniting architecture, wine, and music into a single flow of beauty—that formed the foundation of the estate's concept.

Particular attention should be paid to the name of one of the winery's most famous wines: "1629." This year is crucial to the state's history; it was then that Spanish Franciscan monks secretly brought the first grapevines to New Mexico for religious ceremonies. Thus, the winery pays homage to the centuries-old tradition that made the region one of the oldest wine-producing areas in the USA.

Over the years, Casa Rondeña has earned a reputation as an innovator and has received numerous awards. It was the first winery in the state to actively popularize the Cabernet Franc variety. Its success is confirmed by an impressive collection of medals: for example, their Meritage Red won 11 gold and double gold awards in just three years, making it one of the most decorated wines in the region.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere of this Mediterranean-style retreat, a standard hour might not be enough. Most visitors prefer to spend 1 to 2 hours here, allowing for an unhurried tasting of the best wines in the tasting room and a stroll through the garden.

If you plan to take part in a Saturday guided tour or want to have an extensive photoshoot against the backdrop of Spanish architecture and vineyards, plan for a visit of about 2–3 hours. This time will allow you not only to appreciate the flavor of the drinks but also to feel the unique philosophy of the place, combining music, art, and nature.

The doors of Casa Rondeña Winery are open to guests daily. The tasting room is open from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM, including weekends and holidays. This makes the estate a great place for a peaceful end to the day or a pleasant lunch break during your trip.

For standard visits and tastings, advance reservations are usually not required. However, if you are planning a visit with a large group or want to join a special Saturday tour, it is recommended to check the schedule and availability in advance on the winery's official website or by phone.

Exploring the surroundings of northern Albuquerque is a great way to complement your day with vibrant impressions. After a relaxed tasting at the winery, you can head to the city's historic quarters or visit modern entertainment centers located just a few kilometers away.