Tequila has long been a popular choice south of the border, but this favorite honeymoon destination is also home to a vibrant wine scene. Here, where to go and what to sip.
By: Jimmy ImIf You Have Three Days: San Miguel De Allende
San Miguel de Allende may be well known as a charming colonial town with classic architecture and cobblestone streets, but the historic city tucked away in the Mexican Sierras also has a burgeoning wine scene. In fact, the local government recently sent winemakers to France to further their education. And there are plans to open several dozen vineyards in the next few years. For now, there are a handful of wineries, though the city is so welcoming, three days is warranted. San Miguel boasts authentic food, art galleries and gorgeous, centuries-old buildings.
Fun fact: There are roughly six weddings a week in the city, a true testament to its romantic allure. Most travelers take to the cobblestone streets that are chockablock with art galleries, design stores and handmade crafts. Shopping is the highlight here — you can discover a favorite Pedro Friedeberg print at Casa Diana, the flagship gallery for the renowned surrealist artist and designer.
Where to Stay:
Though recently new on the scene, the enchanting Rosewood San Miguel de Allende has quickly become the city’s top hotel, thanks to its convenient location, lush gardens, pretty courtyards fine dining and 67 elegant guest rooms. The Sense spa is truly pampering — we love the signature mole (chocolate) experience (room rates start at $400 a night; rosewoodhotels.com).
Photos courtesy of Rosewood Hotels & Resorts
Where to Taste:
Rancho Toyan is 170 acres of farm, vineyard and a labyrinth-like cellar where the bottles are stored. It’s so boutique that only 1,000 cases a year are produced. Varieties are mostly chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, cabernet and merlot for local restaurants. Located 45 minutes from downtown San Miguel in Dolores Hidalgo, Cuna de Tierre creates cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, merlot and shiraz. It’s touted as the best vineyard in the region. Comprehensive tours are offered.
Where to Eat:
American chef Donnie Masterton’s eclectic kitchen experience brings a global menu to San Miguel with The Restaurant. Expect a gourmet spin on international dishes, like crab cakes with spicy avocado relish and miso-marinated and broiled cod with soy-ginger green beans. Celebrated chef Enrique Olvera (from the highly acclaimed Pujol in Mexico City) dishes out innovative Mexican dishes — some would consider them art — at Moxi, inside the contemporary boutique Hotel Matilda.
Photo courtesy of Hotel Matilda
