Get a Taste Of Mexico's Wine Country

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.

Tequila has come a long way, baby.

Once the poor man’s poison, tequila has recently reclaimed its stake as the spirit of the gods and has been gracing top restaurants for tastings. The most traditional way to truly enjoy 100 percent tequila (made from the blue agave plant) is sipping it neat and slowly. If you’re not crazy about a straight shot, mix it with a sangrita (a mixture of orange, tomato and lime juices with grenadine and hot sauce). Some of the best spots to sip:

agave field
Photo Credit: Casa Dragones

Las Ventanas Al Paraiso, a Rosewood Resort in Los Cabos boasts more than 100 labels of premium tequilas. Tastings and lessons on the finest varieties are held weekly with the dedicated, in-house tequilero Oscar Modragon. The menu often comprises blanco, reposado, anejo and premium.

las ventanas
Photo Credit: Rosewood Hotels & Resorts

Mexico City’s Dulce Patria, a romantic restaurant from famed local chef Marta Ortiz, may be known for creative and visually impressive contemporary Mexican dishes, but the variety of tequilas is one of the capital’s best. Patrons can create their own tastings from a number of high-end tequilas (like Casa Dragones) and choose from three homemade sangritas.

Formerly the president of Mexico’s personal retreat, Nizuc Resort, Cancun’s newest luxury sanctuary, offers tequila tastings in the Havana Lounge. Choices include blanco, repasado and anejo, with a shot of mescal to give a little kick.

nizuc cancun
Photo Credit: Nizuc Resort & Spa

In the heart of San Miguel, Casa Dragones crafts limited-run tequila (only 24,000 bottles a year) by the first female (and one of few) tequila master in Mexico. Tastings of the exclusive tequila, which has been endorsed by both Ryan Seacrest and Oprah Winfrey, are offered in the romantic setting of a 17th-century building.

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