Mention of New Mexico readily conjures up colorful images of cacti, spicy cuisine, Native American archaeology, adobe structures and desert plains, but there is more to the story than this. Not all of New Mexico is flat, and in fact, those areas of high elevation have been producing quality wines for generations.

As in other areas of the United States, the winemaking industry here developed along with the arrival and settlement of Europeans, who saw wine as an integral part of daily life and culture. The higher elevations help to slow down the ripening process because evening temperatures drop as much as 30° Fahrenheit. This effect preserves acidity in grapes, resulting in wines that are stylistically crisp, balanced and refreshing. In fact, a few producers, such as Gruet (from Champagne house Gruet et Fils), have even earned a high reputation nationally for their successful production of sparkling wines from cool-climate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Click here to see our New Mexico Distribution Portfolio .