The history of Mexican Wines, even though it has been written for centuries, is still in the very early stages of evolving and being recognized worldwide. However, some pioneers in the Valle de Guadalupe, such as Bodegas Domecq, have worked in the Valley for 50 years.
Bodegas Domecq a pioneer of Mexican Wines in Valle de Guadalupe
Growing up in Mexico, Domecq was a brand everyone utterly recognized, primarily because of Brandy Pedro Domecq. Back in the 90s, I recall the TV commercials of Brandy Pedro Domecq, which were positioned across the country and at many family celebrations such as quinceaneras, weddings, and any other family gathering.
Living in the northeast part of Mexico and being a minor, I wasn’t aware of Valle de Guadalupe. At the time, my parents were influenced by White Zinfandel or enjoying other spirits and beer. It was not until now that I became aware that the same producer, Domecq, had been doing wines in the Valle de Guadalupe and has been doing so since 1972.
I recently tried Chateau Domecq Red Blend and White Blend since they have recently become available in the US. I am glad I can try them during my wine journey because I appreciate them differently from an international point of view. After trying many wines, I humbly state that I can enjoy the fruits of a land where I grew up and was so close to me, but I didn’t know we had.
Los vinos
Vino: Chateau Domecq Red 2018
Con: Tacos de Carne Asada, Grilled Portobello Mushrooms, Hamburgers, or Barbeque.
Alma: 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, 8% Nebbiolo
The Red Blend speaks to me regarding legacy. First, what had been Valle de Guadalupe, and how Napa has influenced it. The American influence and is intrinsically part of the Valley. If you like Cabernet Sauvignon from California, you will enjoy the Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Nebbiolo blend. Nebbiolo is a grape with a long history in the Valle de Guadalupe. This Italian Grape Mexican grown adds notes of spices and the Mexican character to the Cabernet Sauvignon. In addition, it has a body and integrated tannins.
Vino: Chateau Domecq White 2021 (SRP $13.99)
Con: shellfish, semi-mature cheeses, and butter-based sauces.
Alma:70% Chardonnay and 30% Viognier.
The wine’s grapes come from different terroirs: sandy soil for the Chardonnay and sandy loam for the Viognier. The vineyards are aged 15 to 25 years. The terroir enjoys the coastal breeze typical of the Valle de Guadalupe and comes from the Pacific Ocean. It is tucked away in a small ” Calafia “. Calafia is a region with a climate similar to the Mediterranean, 300 meters above sea level.
The White Blend’s light and surprisingly balanced Chardonnay and Viognier blend can only happen in Mexico. The fruit-forward balanced white that spent time in French Oak screams Mexican independence and what Mexico can do in winemaking, which is way too different from your buttery Napa Chardonnay.
Bodegas Domecq a pioneer of Mexican Wines in Valle de Guadalupe available in USA through Gonzalez Byass USA.
