Santo Tomás

Santo Tomás

30°50′16″N

LATITUDE

116°03′26″W

LONGITUDE

0

APPELATIONS

about this subregion

The Santo Tomás wine region, nestled in Baja California, Mexico, is a testament to the harmony between nature and viticulture. Spanning across valleys including San Antonis de las Minas, San Vicente de Ferrer, and its namesake, Santo Tomás, this area boasts 350 hectares of vineyards that thrive under a Mediterranean climate. This climate mirrors the warmth and dryness of Napa Valley and the Southern Rhône, with the added benefit of a maritime influence from the nearby Pacific Ocean. Such conditions ensure wet winters and dry summers, creating an ideal setting for vine growth.

The soils of Santo Tomás are predominantly alluvial, rich in granite, similar to those found in the Northern Rhône Valley. These soils are well-draining, allowing for deep root penetration, essential for the development of high-quality grapes. Among the 21 varietals cultivated, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chardonnay stand out as the most common, reflecting the region's ability to nurture both red and white varietals to perfection.

Santo Tomás also prides itself on its historical significance, housing one of the oldest wineries in Mexico, Bodegas de Santo Tomás, which has been instrumental in shaping the region's wine profile. This wine region contributes significantly to Mexico's wine heritage, blending traditional techniques with modern innovations to produce wines that reflect its unique terroir.

Associations

vinerra illustration
350

Vineyard Hectares

1

WINERIES

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GROWING DEGREE DAYS

Discover Terroir

Santo Tomás, within the Northern Baja Wine region, is a captivating subregion known for its rolling hills and vine-covered valleys. Rugged mountain ranges shelter the vineyards from harsh weather, creating an ideal environment for grape cultivation. This picturesque landscape seamlessly blends natural beauty with meticulously tended vineyards, making it a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts and a testament to the region's winemaking excellence.

Santo Tomás offers a striking contrast between lush green vineyards and the sun-drenched earth. Cool breezes in the valleys contribute to a unique microclimate that enhances the terroir. With breathtaking vistas and a landscape that embodies centuries of winemaking tradition, Santo Tomás not only produces exceptional wines but also provides an enchanting experience where nature's beauty converges with the art of winemaking.

The Santo Tomás wine region, nestled in Baja California, Mexico, experiences a Mediterranean climate akin to the arid conditions found in Napa Valley and the Southern Rhône. This climate bears the unmistakable stamp of a significant maritime influence, courtesy of its close proximity to the Pacific Ocean. The majority of vineyards rest within a mere 15 miles of the coastline. This region is graced with wet winters that set the stage for dry and temperate summers, a climate perfect for nurturing high-quality grape harvests.

The harmonious marriage of these climatic elements results in the development of a unique terroir within the larger Baja California wine region, encompassing diverse microclimates. These microclimates provide an ideal environment for cultivating a wide range of grape varietals and crafting an array of wine styles. Santo Tomás, with its Mediterranean climate shaped by its coastal proximity, stands as a testament to the exquisite balance of nature, enabling the creation of exceptional wines that capture the essence of this remarkable terroir.

In the Santo Tomás wine region of Mexico, the prevalent soil type is granite-rich alluvial soil. These soils resemble those found in esteemed wine regions like France's Northern Rhône Valley. They offer favorable conditions for vineyards, facilitating deep root penetration and effective drainage – vital factors for healthy grapevine growth and development. This soil composition plays a pivotal role in shaping the exceptional terroir of the region, contributing to the quality of grapes and wines produced in Santo Tomás.

Discover

Santo Tomás, in the Northern Baja wine region, is renowned for Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chardonnay grapes:

  1. Cabernet Sauvignon: Thrives in the Mediterranean climate and well-drained soils. Ideal ripening conditions with warm summers and mild winters.
  2. Merlot: Enjoys moderate temperatures and ample sunlight, needing careful monitoring for balanced ripening and acidity.
  3. Chardonnay: Flourishes in cool nights and warm days, resulting in optimal sugar levels and acidity for vibrant wines.

Next, we will delve into the most common wines of the Santo Tomás wine region:

  1. Cabernet Sauvignon: Bold blackberry and cassis notes, hints of cedar and tobacco, robust structure, and a lasting finish.
  2. Merlot: Smooth, velvety texture, ripe plum, cherry, and occasional chocolate notes, known for its accessible, fruit-forward character.
  3. Chardonnay: Crisp and invigorating, featuring green apple, citrus, and tropical fruit flavors, often with subtle oak undertones for added complexity.
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