The Remote Winery In New Mexico That's Picture Perfect For A Day Trip
By Juliet White
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Published April 15, 2017
There’s a good chance you’ve never heard of Blanco, New Mexico. This tiny town – population 388 – is located 14 miles east of Bloomfield. Blanco may be remote but you’re going to want to take a day trip here to visit Wines of the San Juan.
The winery is in a gorgeous setting in the San Juan River Valley.
The lines of vines stretch out like ribbons, flanked by sandstone cliffs.
Forget snooty tasting rooms. Here the vibe is relaxed and low-key.
The tasting room is rustic yet charming.
Take your glass outside and unwind on the patio.
You might spot some of the peacocks that roam the property!
Wines of the San Juan is definitely off the beaten path. But, despite being remote, the wine here has triumphed over better-known producers, winning gold, silver, and bronze awards in the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition.
That’s pretty incredible when you consider that the husband and wife team behind this family-run enterprise are self-taught vintners.
In the market for a wallet-friendly white? Sample Girls Are Meaner, a gewürztraminer with floral, fruity, and spicy notes.
The vineyard’s reds are on the dry side and include a stellar, award-winning Tempranillo.
Although you can pair your wine with a cheese plate, that is the limit of food available at the vineyard, save for special events.
However, the Sportsman is close by. This restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and serves up hearty fare like burgers and chicken fried steak.
Address: 1810 Highway 173, Navajo Dam (closed on Mondays)
While you’re in the Four Corners Region, you’ll want to visit nearby Navajo Lake.
Technically a reservoir, this state park is ideal for fishing and boating, and other water activities. For more info.
Have you made the trip out to this winery? If the idea appeals, visit the website for hours (it’s closed on Tuesdays), and information on the wine club, and special events. Otherwise, just hop in the car and keep going until you reach 233 Highway 511 in Blanco!
Discover more of New Mexico’s prettiest vineyards .
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