From Ensenada: Ojos Negros Valley Cheese & Wine Tasting Tour

If you’re looking to add a flavorful twist to your Baja California trip, the Ojos Negros Valley Cheese & Wine Tasting Tour offers a well-rounded day of scenic drives, authentic local delicacies, and expert-guided experiences. This tour is popular for good reason—it combines tasting artisan cheeses and wines with visits to unique farms and wineries, all within just six hours.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to taste artisan cheeses paired with quality wines at La Cava de Marcelo, a genuine highlight for food lovers. Second, the opportunity to visit Infinito Winery and learn from winemaker Pepe Pedrosa, giving you a rare glimpse into Baja’s burgeoning wine scene. Third, the scenic stop at the lavender farm, Aleyha, adds a fragrant, picturesque touch. And while the itinerary is packed with memorable stops, a potential snag could be the unpredictability of availability at certain locations, like the winery or lavender farm.

This tour appeals most to those who love food and drink experiences combined with scenic countryside. It’s perfect for curious travelers eager to discover Baja’s lesser-known gems outside the usual wine routes. However, if you’re not keen on long drives or have mobility concerns, this might require some consideration. Overall, it’s an experience designed for those craving authenticity, expert insights, and a relaxed pace.

Key Points

• Authentic tastings of artisan cheeses and wines at La Cava de Marcelo.
• Visit to Infinito Winery, led by the owner and winemaker, offering personalized insights.
• Guided tour of Rancho La Campana, including a behind-the-scenes look at cheese production.
• Scenic lavender farm visit (subject to availability), with opportunities for photos and shopping.
• Gourmet meal option at Grosso restaurant, featuring lavender-inspired dishes.
• Flexible options for private groups with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• All transportation, admission fees, and snacks included, providing good value.
• Some stops depend on availability, so expect slight changes based on day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This 6-hour adventure begins with convenient hotel pickup from over 100 locations around Ensenada, making logistics straightforward. The first stop is Infinito Winery, where you’ll meet Pepe Pedrosa, a passionate winemaker eager to share his expertise. Expect a vineyard tour that gives you a firsthand look at Baja’s wine-growing potential, along with a detailed explanation of their winemaking process—though note that tastings at Infinito are not included, they are available to purchase.

Next, the tour moves to Rancho La Campana, home to La Cava de Marcelo, where cheese and wine tastings take center stage. You’ll gain insights into the family-owned cheese-making tradition, dating back to 1911, and see the cheese production process firsthand through a guided tour. Here, you’ll discover why Baja California’s artisan cheeses are gaining recognition, especially when paired with carefully selected local wines.

The journey then takes you to Aleyha Lavender Farm, the only lavender farm in Baja, where you can stroll through fields of fragrant purple blooms, take memorable photos, and browse artisanal lavender products. This stop is seasonally available on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, so check ahead if it’s a must-see for you.

Finally, the tour pauses at Grosso Restaurant for a lavender-inspired meal or snacks, offering regional cuisine that complements the day’s tasting theme. This optional meal allows you to unwind and indulge in Baja’s local flavors before heading back to Ensenada.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Infinito Winery
The visit to Infinito is more than just a quick look at the vines; it’s led by Pepe Pedrosa, a dedicated winemaker whose hands-on approach enriches your understanding of Baja’s wine production. While tastings at the winery cost extra, the vineyard tour itself is a valuable experience if you’re interested in the local wine scene. Guests have commented on Pepe’s approachable manner and the beautiful vineyard views, making it a highlight for wine enthusiasts.

Stop 2: La Cava de Marcelo at Rancho La Campana
This is the heart of the tour—artisan cheese and wine pairing in a charming underground cellar. Visitors rave about the quality of the cheese and the expertly curated wine list. One review states, “The guide was amazing and patient with us. The places we have been where great,” highlighting the personalized attention and the relaxed, friendly atmosphere. You’ll learn about traditional cheese-making techniques and enjoy tasting several varieties paired with local wines, which elevates the experience beyond simply sipping wine.

Stop 3: Aleyha Lavender Farm
Depending on availability, this stop offers a beautiful landscape filled with lavender fields and lagoons. Visitors say it’s a peaceful, scenic spot perfect for photos and browsing organic lavender products. The farm, being the only lavender operation in Baja, offers a unique regional perspective. Some travelers note that the visit is seasonal, so it may not always be available, but when it is, it’s a fragrant highlight.

Stop 4: Grosso Restaurant
The final stop features a lavender-inspired meal or snacks at Grosso, allowing you to savor regional flavors in a setting that complements the day’s theme. Guests often leave feeling satisfied and inspired by the culinary options—though meals are at your own expense, they’re a nice way to cap the day.

Pricing at $97 per person seems reasonable given the inclusions: round-trip transport, guided tours, and tastings. While tastings at Infinito and La Cava de Marcelo are not included, the opportunity to purchase wines and cheeses directly supports local producers. The tour is quite flexible—private groups are available, and you can cancel with a full refund if done 24 hours in advance.

Transportation is comfortable and included, with pickups from over 100 locations, making planning easier. The duration of six hours balances sightseeing and tasting without feeling rushed, though some travelers noted that stops could vary depending on availability—particularly the lavender farm and winery.

Timing is important; check the start time when booking, and arrive 15 minutes early for pickup. Keep in mind ages 18+ are required for alcohol consumption, and the tour is operated rain or shine, so dress accordingly.

What to bring? Comfortable shoes are a must since you’ll walk through vineyards and fields. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat are recommended for outdoor stops. It’s wise to carry some cash and your ID, as well as a camera to capture the lovely scenery.

The Experience – Authentic, Educational, and Enjoyable

From start to finish, this tour offers a taste of Baja California’s local craftsmanship. The guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and genuinely passionate about the region, which makes all the difference. As one reviewer noted, Pepe Pedrosa’s engaging manner and patience made the Infinito visit memorable.

The cheese and wine pairing at La Cava de Marcelo is a highlight, as it showcases some of Baja’s best artisan products. Guests often comment on the quality of the cheese and the pairing’s authenticity, describing it as a “great value” and “a perfect match for the wine.” The underground cellar adds a cozy, boutique feel, emphasizing the artisan nature of the products.

The lavender farm visit, while seasonal, offers a peaceful contrast to the vineyards and cheese caves. It’s not just about the photos; it’s about experiencing a different side of Baja—one of fragrant fields and organic farming. Reviewers appreciate the scenic drive through the countryside, which adds a relaxed, rural charm to the day.

Finally, the optional meal at Grosso restaurant not only offers regional dishes but also allows for a moment to reflect on the day’s tastings and sights. It’s a chance to unwind and digest before heading back to town.

Absolutely, especially if you’re a foodie, wine lover, or simply curious about Baja’s local artisan scene. The value for money is solid considering the multiple stops, expert guides, and transportation included. The tour’s intimate, flexible nature—especially private group options—enhances the experience, making it feel personalized rather than touristy.

The mix of scenic drives, cultural insights, and tastings creates a balanced day that appeals to all senses. The knowledgeable guides and high-quality product tastings provide a deeper appreciation for Baja California’s craftsmanship, making this more than just a sightseeing trip.

However, be aware that some stops depend on seasonal availability, and tastings are not included in the base price, so budget accordingly if you plan to buy wines or cheeses.

This experience suits travelers who are eager to learn about Baja’s artisan cheese and wine production while enjoying stunning countryside views. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxed, authentic day with guided insights and plenty of tastings. Foodies and wine enthusiasts will find the visit to the winery and cheese cave particularly rewarding.

It’s also suitable for small groups or private bookings, making it perfect for couples, friends, or small families seeking a personalized experience. If you’re after a quick, structured tour that offers tangible taste experiences rather than just sightseeing, this is a fantastic choice.

If you’re sensitive to long drives or seeking a highly active, physically demanding outing, this might not be the best fit. Remember, some stops could be limited by weather or seasonal factors, so flexibility is key.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from over 100 locations around Ensenada, making it convenient and easy to plan.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, which balances enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Do I need to pay for tastings at Infinito Winery?
Tastings at Infinito are not included in the base price, but you can purchase bottles or tastings directly at the winery.

Can I visit the lavender farm?
Yes, but only on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, depending on availability. It’s a scenic and aromatic highlight when open.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, cash, ID, and a camera are recommended. The tour operates rain or shine, so dress accordingly.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
Since participants must be 18+ to consume alcohol, it’s primarily for adults. Non-drinkers can still enjoy the scenery and other aspects of the tour.

Can I book this as a private group?
Yes, private group options are available for a more personalized experience.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility to accommodate changing plans.

The Ojos Negros Valley Cheese & Wine Tasting Tour offers a thoughtfully curated glimpse into Baja California’s artisan food scene and scenic countryside. It’s a well-balanced experience that combines education, flavor, and relaxation. Whether you’re a wine lover, cheese connoisseur, or simply someone wanting a meaningful day out, this tour provides good value and authentic encounters.

The knowledgeable guides, especially Pepe Pedrosa and the team at La Cava de Marcelo, make the experience engaging and memorable. The scenic stops at lavender fields and vineyards add a pleasing visual dimension, elevating this from a simple tasting tour to an enriching cultural excursion. While some elements are seasonal or subject to availability, the overall experience remains a solid choice for curious travelers.

In the end, this tour is best suited for those who appreciate authentic, small-scale artisanal products and want to learn from passionate local producers. It’s not hurried or commercialized, giving you a genuine taste of Baja’s countryside charm. For anyone looking to combine scenic beauty with gourmet delights, this is a rewarding day trip that’s hard to beat.