Adobe Guadalupe, Valle de Guadalupe (Baja California, Mexico) 2016

 As you begin to read this, I implore you to abandon any notions you may have about the quality of wine from a rugged region a mere 90-minutes from the California border.  Mexico’s Valle de Guadalupe (a valley in Baja Norte) has been referred to as the Napa Valley of Mexico, and for a good reason.  Blessed with a perfect climate, a centuries-old winemaking tradition, and surrounded by two seas, this emerging region can yield world-class wines.  An example of such may be found at Adobe Guadalupe.  Notably, their Kerubiel, a Rhône-inspired blend of 50% Syrah, 27% Cinsault, 16% Mourvedre, and 7% Grenache.  The Kerubiel has notes of spice and black tea coiled underneath raspberries and dusty red cherries.  The palate has well-integrated tannins and bright acidity while the primary aromas of the wine persist on the palate.  This wine and the Valle are having a moment – don’t miss it.