From Ensenada: Ojos Negros Valley Cheese & Wine Tasting Tour

If you’re after a taste of Baja California’s countryside combined with indulgent wine and cheese pairings, the Ojos Negros Valley Cheese & Wine Tasting Tour offers a compelling option. This 6-hour journey from Ensenada takes you through rolling vineyards, artisan cheese makers, and even a lavender farm, providing a well-rounded glimpse into local flavors and scenic beauty.

Three things we particularly like about this experience are the chance to tour a family-run cheese factory, the intimate vineyard visits with knowledgeable guides, and the opportunity to explore a unique lavender farm—the only one in Baja California. The only drawback might be that some stops are subject to availability, which could mean a slightly different experience depending on the day. Still, if you love good wine, cheese, and peaceful countryside, this tour hits many sweet spots.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic local products, enjoy scenic drives, and want a relaxed yet informative taste of Baja’s rural charm. It’s especially perfect if you’re craving a laid-back day that combines learning and tasting, with enough flexibility to customize some parts of your journey.

Good To Know

• Authentic Experiences: Visit family-run cheese and wine producers for genuine insights.
• Scenic Views: Enjoy stunning countryside scenery and picturesque lavender fields.
• Expert Guides: Guided tours deepen your understanding of local wine and cheese making.
• Tasting Opportunities: Multiple tastings of artisan cheeses and quality wines.
• Flexibility: Some stops are subject to availability, adding a spontaneous element.
• Value for Money: At $107, the tour offers a comprehensive, taste-filled day with transportation and entry fees included.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Ojos Negros Valley Cheese & Wine Tour

Setting the Scene: What the Tour Offers

This tour is a delightful escape from the buzz of Ensenada, taking you about an hour east into the countryside of Baja California. It’s designed to showcase the region’s lesser-known but equally charming wine and cheese scene. The experience combines guided visits, tastings, and scenic stops, creating a well-paced day that balances education with indulgence.

Transportation and Group Size

The round-trip transportation is included, with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off from ten different locations, including Ensenada, Guadalupe, and Estero Beach. This arrangement takes the hassle out of planning logistics, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area. The tour is designed for small groups, ensuring a more personalized experience, and there’s also an option for private groups if you want to customize your day further.

The Itinerary

Infinito Winery: A Taste of Baja’s Winemaking

Your journey begins at Infinito Winery, where you’ll be greeted personally by Pepe Pedrosa, the owner and winemaker. Although the actual wine tastings are not included in the tour price, the opportunity to tour the vineyard and learn directly from someone rooted in the local wine scene is invaluable. Reviewers have noted that Pepe’s knowledge makes this stop particularly engaging. One mentions that the visit lasts about 1.5 hours, with an aperitif and wine tasting available, weather permitting.

Expect to see lush vineyard rows and perhaps learn about the unique terroir that Baja California offers. This stop sets a relaxed tone for the day, emphasizing the craftsmanship behind Baja wines.

Rancho La Campana and La Cava de Marcelo: Cheese, Wine, and Heritage

Next, you’ll visit Rancho La Campana, a family operation with roots dating back to 1911. Here, you’ll take a guided tour of the cheese-making facilities, where you can observe the process firsthand. The Ramonetti family’s dedication is evident, and you’ll gain insight into traditional cheese production.

The highlight is the tasting at La Cava de Marcelo, an underground cheese cellar that adds a unique vibe to the experience. You’ll sample artisan cheeses paired with local wines, appreciating how the flavors complement each other. Reviewers have said the cheese-making process is fascinating, and the guide’s explanations are clear and engaging. One reviewer appreciated the patience of the guide, saying, “The guide was amazing and patient with us,” which gave a relaxed, friendly atmosphere to the tastings.

Aleyha Lavender Farm: A Fragrant Break

A real bonus of this tour is the Aleyha Lavender Farm, which is only available from Friday to Sunday. Here, you can walk through the lavender fields, take photos, and browse the artisanal organic products in the farm’s shop. The scenery is especially delightful, with colors, scents, and lagoons with ducks creating a peaceful escape.

While the lavender farm is a subject to availability, those who visit find it a refreshing change from wine and cheese. Some reviews mention that it’s a scenic spot perfect for a quick walk and photo opportunities, and that the shop offers a variety of lavender-based goods.

Optional Gourmet Lunch at Grosso Restaurant

The tour ends with a visit to Grosso Restaurant, where you can enjoy regional cuisine infused with lavender. This meal, which is at your own expense, provides a chance to savor Baja’s culinary flavors in a beautiful setting. Expect to find tapas, desserts, and gourmet dishes that highlight local ingredients.

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Practical Details and Considerations

Pricing and Value

At $107 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that covers transportation, multiple tastings, and guided tours. While some tasting experiences at the winery and cheese cellar are not included, the value lies in access to authentic producers, expert guides, and scenic stops. Compared to similar experiences—like private wine tastings or longer vineyard tours—this package balances affordability with depth.

Duration and Timing

Six hours is enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. You’ll start with pickups in the morning, and the itinerary is flexible enough to accommodate some variations depending on availability. Remember to arrive 15 minutes early for pickup, and be prepared for a day outdoors—comfortable shoes, sun protection, and cash are recommended.

Accessibility and Limitations

This tour isn’t suitable for travelers with mobility issues or wheelchair users, as some stops involve walking or uneven terrain. Since it’s a wine and cheese experience, participants must be 18 or older with valid ID for alcohol consumption.

Weather and Seasonal Considerations

The tour operates rain or shine, which means you should dress appropriately for the weather. The lavender farm is only open from Friday to Sunday, which could affect your plans if you’re visiting midweek.

Authentic Experiences That Shine

One of the biggest perks of this tour is the chance to visit family-run operations. The Ramonetti family has been producing cheese since 1911, and their guided tour offers a genuine look into traditional methods. Guests have praised the guides for their patience and knowledge, making the experience both educational and personable.

The scenic vineyard tour at Infinito Winery offers insight into Baja’s unique terroir, with one reviewer noting that the owner, Pepe Pedrosa, made the visit particularly memorable. The fact that the tour includes a visit to a lavender farm also sets it apart from more conventional wine tours, providing a fragrant, colorful contrast.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those wanting a relaxed but insightful day outside the city, with an emphasis on authentic local products. If you’re a fan of cheese and wine, the guided visits and tastings will satisfy your curiosity and palate. Nature lovers will appreciate the countryside scenery and the lavender farm, especially if they visit on a weekend.

It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone seeking a taste of Baja’s countryside without the need for a full-day winery tour. However, travelers with mobility constraints may want to consider other options, as some stops involve walking or uneven terrain.

Final Thoughts

The Ojos Negros Valley Cheese & Wine Tasting Tour offers an engaging, flavor-filled journey into Baja California’s rural charm. It combines authentic family-run operations, scenic countryside, and memorable tastings—all packed into a manageable 6-hour window.

While some stops depend on availability, this adds an element of surprise that keeps the day lively. The knowledgeable guides, especially those who take the time to explain the traditions behind the products, make all the difference. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to experience Baja’s local flavors in a relaxed, friendly setting.

For travelers seeking a mix of scenic beauty, authentic tastings, and cultural insight—this tour balances these elements nicely and delivers a satisfying day out of Ensenada.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, including pickup, visits, tastings, and travel time between stops.

What is included in the price?
Price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, round-trip transportation, admission fees, a guided tour of Rancho La Campana, visit to the cheese production area, and the lavender farm if available, plus bottled water and snacks.

Are tastings at the wineries included?
No, tastings at Infinito Winery and Cava de Marcelo are not included in the tour price. You will have the chance to taste wines during the visits.

Can I visit the lavender farm?
Yes, but only on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, as the farm is subject to availability.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is only for participants 18 and older because of alcohol consumption requirements.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), sunglasses, cash, and a valid photo ID.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the nature of stops.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

What if it rains?
The tour operates rain or shine, so dress accordingly.

Where do I meet the guide if I’m not within pickup range?
You can meet at the Centro Social, Cultural y Cívico Riviera Ensenada, where the guide will wait by the main wooden door.

In sum, this tour provides a well-balanced mix of scenic countryside, authentic local products, and expert insights, all delivered in a relaxed setting perfect for casual wine and cheese lovers. It’s best suited for those who want to enjoy Baja’s rural vibe without the fuss, making it an excellent choice for a memorable day outside Ensenada.

You can check if your dates are available here: