Mexico Boutique Hotels

Mexico´s wine country has to be one of its best-kept secrets, even though there are more than a few fine labels that have garnered awards on the worldwide stage. The Valley is about two-thirds the size of Napa Valley in California, with similar weather conditions to those of southwestern France. The result is wines that rival any produced in the new world.

Tucked away in the rolling hills of Baja California´s Valle de Guadalupe, the aptly named Adobe Guadalupe is well off the beaten path. A graceful, hacienda-style home with exotic Persian touches (the design, in fact, was very much influenced by Iranian desert architecture), it is the private home of Tru and Donald Miller, who found they had so much fun hosting friends that they decided to open up six rooms and welcome new friends from around the world. Named after archangels—Uriel, Gabriel, Rafael, Serafiel, Kerubiel and Miguel—these six rooms follow the style of Persian architecture with touches of the interior of Mexico.

Adobe Guadalupe is a working winery, as well. They have 60 acres of vineyards where they grow Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Nebbiolo, Cabernet Franc, Tempranillo, Shiraz and a bit of Viongier grapes. The Millers began their work in 1998, and had their first harvest in 2000. Together with their winemaker, the renowned Hugo D´Acosta, the Millers have created three eclectic and what they call “ethereal” blends, all named after archangels (of course). They produce 5,000 cases of wine per year, and age them in barrels in their own cave, which is topped off with a cupola of blue Talavera tile. It´s here that they conduct their wine tastings: the wine is plentiful, delicious and potent, so you´ll be happy you don´t have to drive home.

Art is very much a part of Adobe Guadalupe. In the cave, for example, artist Juan Sebastian Beltran has created abstract murals that reach up to the sky. Around their living room (with a view of the vineyards), the artist has placed pieces created especially for this space. Here they´ll light the chimney for you on cool evenings, and during the winter months it´s a gathering place for High Tea from 4 to 6.

Outdoors, the shrine dedicated to the Virgin of Guadalupe invites guests to a bit of quiet contemplation. The swimming pool and Jacuzzi—with a view of the lower vineyards and the mountains—are another favorite spot for meditation and relaxation. On the bottom of the swimming pool is another unexpected piece of art: Natana Gulliver installed mosaic of an octopus with a glass of wine in one of his tentacles, created with pieces of broken Wedgewood and Royal Doulton dinner plates.

Horses also play a big role in the Adobe Guadalupe experience. Whether you ride or not, you´ll find it hard not to admire the magnificent specimens that grace their stables. A selective mix of pure blood Andalusian and Quarter horses, these Aztec horses are simply stunning. Their looks—arrogant and gorgeous—are well tempered by a sweetness of character that makes them a perfect combination of the two breeds.

Discerning palate will rejoice at mealtimes, whether it´s over the multi-course breakfast served at the communal table in the kitchen (included in the price) or the optional 3- or 4-course dinner with wine pairings, served with white linen, fine china and crystal in the grand dining room (some of the food is actually grown on-property).

Consider This ...
Guadalajara is only a 2.5-hour flight from your Tijuana gateway: you can combine your wine country escape with a lakeside getaway with some serious spa time at El Chante Spa Hotel or opt for a “heart of the city” stay at the incomparable Villa Ganz.

You´ll Especially Love
The boutique vineyards in the valley offer much more than just wine: try olives, olive oil, tasty baked goods and preserves, herbs and cheeses. There´s something going on nearly every weekend around the valley, from winemaking seminars to galas, tastings and other activities. The grape harvest is in August and September during the traditional Fiestas de la Vendimia. During the 10-day festival, guests can enjoy wine tastings and contests, cook-offs, gourmet foods, concerts and even fishing tournaments sponsored and organized by local wineries.

You May Want To Know
There are several large dogs on the property and though they are docile, they do have the run of the place. Also, the drive from the Tijuana airport (via private car and driver arranged for by the hotel) is 90 minutes´ long; however, the route is lovely and before you know it, you´re in the heart of wine country!

What´s Fabulous Here
The ambiance in harmony with nature where you´ll live unique experiences, accompanied with wine, haute cuisine, horseback rides, swimming at our pool, relaxing in the Jacuzzi, while enjoying spectacular sunsets.

Who It Would Appeal To
Wine lovers! Equestrians! Foodies! And pretty much anybody looking for peace and quiet wrapped up in good taste, beautiful views and plenty of comfort.