Santa Fe Day trip to Northern New Mexico Wine Country

If you’re dreaming of a day blending scenic beauty, flavorful wines, and a sprinkle of New Mexico’s unique culture, this Santa Fe wine tour might just be your perfect match. Promising a full-day adventure through some of the highest vineyards in the U.S., this experience offers more than just tasting wine — it’s about soaking up the land, history, and flavors that make northern New Mexico special.

What makes this tour worth considering? First, we’re fans of its small-group format, which means less hustle, more personalized attention, and a chance to really enjoy each stop. Second, the curated tastings paired with local bites and seasonal snacks elevate the experience, giving you a genuine taste of the region’s culinary and viticultural character. One potential drawback? If you prefer a more fast-paced or extensive wine-hopping experience, this relaxed day might feel a little slow. But that’s part of its charm — it’s about savoring rather than rushing.

Designed for lovers of wine, scenery, culture, and relaxed exploration, this tour best suits those who appreciate quality over quantity and want a meaningful immersion into Northern New Mexico’s high-altitude vineyards. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious traveler eager to see a lesser-known side of Santa Fe, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Small-group intimacy ensures personalized attention and relaxed visits.
• Scenic drives on the High Road to Chimayó showcase breathtaking New Mexico landscapes.
• High-elevation vineyards provide a unique setting for tasting wines with a sense of place.
• Curated tastings paired with local snacks give depth to each vineyard visit.
• Cultural stops like the Santuario de Chimayó add a spiritual and historic dimension.
• Comfortable transportation in a luxury Mercedes-Benz Sprinter enhances the day’s enjoyment.

An Authentic Journey Through Northern New Mexico’s Vineyards

This Santa Fe day trip offers a well-rounded look at what makes northern New Mexico’s wine scene special—stunning landscapes, dedicated local producers, and a sense of place that’s hard to find elsewhere. It’s a chance to explore the region’s high-altitude vineyards, which sit at elevations that can influence the wines’ character, often resulting in crisp whites and expressive reds. But it’s also about enjoying the journey as a whole: the land, the culture, and the stories behind each glass.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: La Fonda on the Plaza
The tour begins in the heart of Santa Fe, a location that’s both convenient and atmospheric. After a brief introduction, you’ll hop aboard a luxury Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, which promises comfort and style. The small group size (up to 13 travelers) makes for a relaxed atmosphere where you can genuinely converse with your guide and fellow enthusiasts.

Stop 1: Santuario de Chimayó
Your first pause is at this revered site, a quick 30-minute visit that offers a welcome dose of local spirituality. Known for its historic and cultural significance, the sanctuary provides a peaceful start, setting a contemplative tone for the day. It’s a free admission, making it a meaningful, budget-friendly way to connect with the region’s traditions.

Stop 2: La Chiripada Winery
Next, you’ll visit the oldest continuously operated winery in the region. This winery has a long-standing reputation for producing both reds and whites, and the tasting here will last about 45 minutes. You’ll savor a variety of wines while soaking in the history of a family-run operation, which adds a warm, personal touch.

Stop 3: Vivac Winery
The highlight for many is Vivac Winery, known for being one of the highest elevation vineyards in the U.S. This stop offers a chance to taste a different spectrum of wines, paired with local snacks and small bites. You also have the option to sample beer here if wine isn’t your preference. The 45-minute visit combines scenic views with a relaxed tasting experience.

Stop 4: Embudo Valley Vineyards
Your final stop features more reds and whites, allowing you to compare styles and flavors. Nestled in a picturesque setting, this winery rounds out the tasting journey, which you’ll enjoy for about 45 minutes.

What You’ll Get and What’s Not Included

All wine tastings are included in the price, along with snacks and seasonal bites — a thoughtful addition that complements the wines and enhances the overall experience. Gratuities are not included, so if your guide makes your day memorable, tipping is appreciated but entirely optional.

The Guide and the Experience

The reviews reflect the quality of the guiding, with travelers praising Jerard’s enthusiasm and knowledge. One reviewer noted, “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 can make all the difference when exploring unfamiliar territory.

Transportation and Group Size

Traveling in a luxury vehicle ensures comfort, especially given the scenic drives between stops. The small group size not only enhances the experience but also facilitates a more intimate and flexible itinerary, allowing for spontaneous delights or extra time at particular sites.

Value for Money

At $299 per person, this tour offers a well-curated blend of cultural highlights, scenic drives, and tastings. When you consider the included wines, snacks, and the personalized attention, it’s a solid value for a day that balances relaxation, education, and culinary enjoyment.

Authenticity and Local Flavor

Beyond just wine, the tour offers insight into the land and traditions of northern New Mexico. The stop at the Santuario de Chimayó connects you to the spiritual fabric of the region, while the family-run wineries highlight local craftsmanship. The pairing of wines with regional snacks adds a layer of cultural authenticity that’s often missing in more commercialized tours.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, cultural, and scenic outing. If you enjoy wine tastings with a sense of place, appreciate small-group intimacy, and want to explore beyond Santa Fe’s well-trodden tourist paths, you’ll find this tour richly rewarding. It’s also a great fit for those who value authentic local experiences over high-energy, fast-paced tours.

It’s especially suitable for adults—the focus is on wine and culture, and the pace is leisurely. Families with older children might enjoy it, provided everyone appreciates a slower, more contemplative day. If you’re looking for a deep dive into wine and regional history, this tour delivers.

The Sum Up: The Perfect Blend of Scenery, Culture, and Flavors

This Santa Fe day trip to Northern New Mexico’s high-elevation wine country offers a well-balanced experience for those eager to enjoy scenic drives, learn about local viticulture, and indulge in curated tastings. It’s not just about drinking wine but appreciating the land’s influence on the flavors and the stories behind each vineyard.

Travelers who adore beautiful landscapes and authentic local touches will find this tour especially compelling. The inclusion of cultural sites like Chimayó adds depth, making it more than just a wine tasting — it’s a mini cultural journey.

The tour’s small-group size, luxury transportation, and personalized guide create an intimate, relaxed environment where you can truly savor every moment. While the pace is leisurely, that’s part of the appeal — this is a day for enjoyment rather than rushing through.

In short, if you’re after a quality, authentic experience that combines scenic beauty, delicious wines, and cultural richness, this trip is a wonderful choice. It’s an excellent way to deepen your understanding of New Mexico’s distinctive landscape and flavors, all while enjoying a restful and scenic day out of Santa Fe.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, allowing plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
All wine tastings and snacks are included, along with the transportation aboard a luxury Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. Gratuities are not included.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 13 travelers, ensuring a more personal and less crowded experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at La Fonda on the Plaza in Santa Fe and returns there at the end of the day.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s primarily geared towards adults, especially those interested in wine and cultural experiences.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Are there any dietary restrictions to consider?
Snacks and tastings are included, but if you have specific dietary needs, it’s best to check with the provider beforehand.

Can I bring home wine from the vineyards?
The tour focuses on tastings and does not specify wine purchases, but you might find options at each vineyard if you wish to buy bottles.

Is the transportation climate-controlled?
Yes, traveling in a luxury Mercedes-Benz Sprinter ensures comfort, regardless of the weather outside.

This tour offers a genuine, immersive look at northern New Mexico’s scenic, cultural, and vinicultural landscape. It’s a tasteful way to spend a day that balances relaxation, education, and delicious experiences—perfect for those who appreciate the quieter, more authentic side of Santa Fe.